Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Respiratory …...SMALL ENTITY COMPLIANCE GUIDE FOR THE...

Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Respiratory Protection Standard

OSHA 3384-09 2011

Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970“To assure safe and healthful working conditionsfor working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States intheir efforts to assure safe and healthful workingconditions; by providing for research, information,education, and training in the field of occupationalsafety and health.”

This publication provides a general overview of aparticular standards-related topic. This publicationdoes not alter or determine compliance responsibil-ities which are set forth in OSHA standards and the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Moreover,because interpretations and enforcement policymay change over time, for additional guidance onOSHA compliance requirements, the reader shouldconsult current administrative interpretations anddecisions by the Occupational Safety and HealthReview Commission and the courts.

This document is intended to provide relevant information to employers and employees in deter-mining whether respirators are needed, and, if so,how the respirators should be selected and used.This publication does not replace the official Respi-ratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134).

Material contained in this publication is in the publicdomain and may be reproduced, fully or partially,without permission. Source credit is requestedbut not required.

This information will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. Voicephone: (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number:1-877-889-5627.

Small Entity Compliance Guide for the

Respiratory Protection Standard

Occupational Safety and Health AdministrationU.S. Department of Labor

OSHA 3384-09 2011

Original cover illustrations created by Attiliis & Associates

ContentsIntroduction...................................................... 5

The audience for this guide.................................6

How to use this guide............................................6

Respiratory protection equipment....................8

OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard.....................................................................9

The Respiratory Protection Program................9

When to use the Respiratory Protection Program................................................9

Updates to OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard.............................................10

The benefits of the Respiratory Protection Standard.............................................10

Points of Contact for additional information..............................................................11

Section (a): Permissible practice.............11

(a)(1) Engineering controls.................................11

(a)(2) Providing employees with respirators...............................................................12

Checklist for Permissible Practice..................12

Section (b): Definitions...............................13

Section (c): Respiratory protection program............................................................13

(c)(1) Program development and implementation.....................................................13

(c)(2) Where respirator use is not required.. 14

(c)(3) Program administrator.............................15

(c)(4) Employer-provided respirators..............16

Checklist for Respiratory Protection Programs..................................................................16

Section (d): Respirator selection.............16

(d)(1)(i) General guidelines for selection.......16

(d)(1)(ii) Selected respirator must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).....17

(d)(1)(iii) Employers need to identify and evaluate worksite hazards........................17

(d)(1)(iv)You must provide a sufficient number of respirators to correctly fit the user.....................................................................18

(d)(2) Respirators for IDLH atmospheres......18

(d)(2)(i) Types of respirators...............................18

(d)(2)(ii) Respirators for escape from IDLH atmospheres must be NIOSH-certified for escape from the atmosphere in which they will be used...................................................18

(d)(2)(iii) You must consider all oxygen deficient atmospheres to be IDLH..................18

(d)(3) Respirators for non-IDLH atmospheres...........................................................18

(d)(3)(i) You must provide respirators that are adequate to protect employee health and ensure compliance with all other OSHA requirements under routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.................................................................18

(d)(3)(i)(A) You must select respirators according to Assigned Protection Factors(APF)..........................................................................19

(d)(3)(i)(B) You must select respirators after considering the Maximum Use Concentrations in your workplace underwhich respirators are used................................19

(d)(3)(ii) You must select respirators that are appropriate for the chemical state and physical form of the contaminant..........20

(d)(3)(iii) Respiratory protection for gases and vapors..................................................20

(d)(3)(iv) Respiratory protection for particulates.............................................................22

Checklist for Respirator Selection..................23

Table I: Assigned Protection Factors............24

Table II: Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres.....27

Section (e): Medical evaluation................27

(e)(1) Employer provided medical evaluations..............................................................27

(e)(2) Medical evaluation procedures.............27

(e)(3) Follow-up medical examinations..........28

(e)(4) Administration of questionnaires and examinations..................................................28

(e)(5) Supplemental information for the PLHCP...............................................................29

(e)(6) Medical determination.............................30

(e)(7) Additional medical evaluations............ 30

Checklist for Medical Evaluation.....................31

Section (f): Fit testing................................. 31

Qualitative Fit Testing and User Seal Checking..................................................................34

(f)(1) Respirators that require fit testing......35

(f)(2) When fit testing must be conducted: general requirements..........................................35

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Occupational Safety and Health Administration

S M A L L E N T I T Y C O M P L I A N C E G U I D E F O R T H E R E S P I R A T O R Y P R O T E C T I O N S T A N D A R D

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(f)(3) When fit testing must be conducted:changes in the respirator wearer’s physical condition................................................35

(f)(4) When fit testing must be conducted: unacceptable fit as determined by an employee after fit testing..................................35

(f)(5) Fit testing procedures: general fit testing procedures.........................................35

(f)(6) Limitation on use of qualitative fit testing.................................................................35

(f)(7) Use of quantitative fit testing...............36

(f)(8) Fit testing for atmosphere-supplying and powered air-purifying respirators.......... 36

Checklist for Fit Testing......................................41

Section (g): Use of respirators.................41

(g)(1) Preventing leaks in the face-piece seal.................................................................41

(g)(2) Continuing respirator effectiveness...43

(g)(3) Procedures for Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health atmospheres and for interior structural firefighting..........43

(g)(4) Procedures for interior structural firefighting..............................................................46

Checklist for Proper Use of Respirators..............................................................47

Section (h): Maintenance and care of respirators..................................................47

(h)(1) Cleaning and disinfecting ......................47

(h)(2) Storage..........................................................48

(h)(3) Inspection ....................................................48

(h)(4) Repairs ..........................................................48

Checklist for Respirator Maintenance and Care...................................................................49

Section (i): Breathing air quality and use.............................................................49

(i)(1) Specifications for breathing air ............50

(i)(1)(i) Compressed and liquid oxygen..........50

(i)(1)(ii) Compressed breathing air.................. 50

(i)(2)&(3) Oxygen use...........................................51

(i)(4) Cylinder use..................................................51

(i)(5)-(7) Compressor use....................................51

(i)(5)(i) Location of compressor during use..51

(i)(5)(ii) Low moisture content of ambient air..............................................................51

(i)(5)(iii) Inline air purification...........................51

(i)(5)(iv) Tracking of bed and filter changes..52

(i)(6) Compressors that are not oil lubricated................................................................52

(i)(7) Compressors that are oil lubricated....52

(i)(8) Precautions regarding couplings..........53

(i)(9) Labeling of breathing gas containers..53

Checklist for Breathing Air Quality and Use.....................................................................53

Section (j): Identification of filters, cartridges and canisters.................................54

Section (k): Training and information.....54

(k)(1) Content of training...................................54

(k)(2) Comprehension of training....................55

(k)(3) Timing of training..................................... 55

(k)(4) Portability of training..............................55

(k)(5) Retraining.....................................................55

(k)(6) Information for voluntary respirator users.....................................................56

Checklist for Training and Information..........56

Section (l): Program evaluation..................56

(l)(1) Conducting program evaluations......... 56

(l)(2) Consulting with employees.................... 56

Checklist for Program Evaluation...................57

Section (m): Recordkeeping......................57

(m)(1) Medical evaluation records.................. 57

(m)(2) Respirator fit testing records..............57

(m)(3) Written respiratory protection program....................................................................57

(m)(4) Access to records.....................................57

Checklist for Recordkeeping.............................57

Attachment 1: APF Glossary and definitions......................................................58

Attachment 2: Checklists...............................61

Checklist for Permissible Practice..................61

Checklist for Respiratory Protection Programs..................................................................61

Checklist for Respirator Selection..................62

Checklist for Medical Evaluation.....................62

Checklist for Fit Testing......................................63

Checklist for Proper Use of Respirators..............................................................63

Checklist for Respirator Maintenance and Care...................................................................64

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Checklist for Breathing Air Quality and Use.....................................................................65

Checklist for Training and Information..........65

Checklist for Program Evaluation...................66

Checklist for Recordkeeping.............................66

Attachment 3: Respiratory Protection Standard...............67

Table I: Assigned Protection Factors..............71

Table II: Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres.......72

Appendix A to § 1910.134: Fit Testing Procedures (Mandatory)......................................81

Part I. OSHA-Accepted Fit Test Protocols.....81

Table A-1: CNP REDON Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol...............................................93

Part II. New FitTest Protocols...........................93

Appendix B-1 to § 1910.134: User Seal Check Procedures (Mandatory)..............94

Appendix B-2 to § 1910.134: Respirator Cleaning Procedures (Mandatory)...................95

Appendix C to § 1910.134: OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire (Mandatory)................................96

Part A. Section 1. (Mandatory)..........................96

Part A. Section 2. (Mandatory).........................96

Appendix D to § 1910.134: Information for Employees Using Respirators When Not Required Under the Standard (Mandatory) ..................100

Attachment 4: Sample Program...............101

Attachment 5: NIOSH MultiVapor Information............................................................112

Attachment 6: NIOSH Tables of Cartridges and Canisters by APFs (Modified to OSHA APFs)............................. 113

Table 1. Particulate Respirators....................113

Table 2. Gas/Vapor Respirators.....................114

Table 3. Combination Gas/Vapor and Particulate Respirators...........................115

Complaints, Emergencies and Further Assistance.................................. 116

OSHA Regional Offices..................................118

Agencies are required to prepare and publish one or more guides to assist small entities in complyingwith regulations for which an agency is required to prepare a final regulatory flexibility analysis. (Requirement is in the Small Business RegulatoryEnforcement Fairness Act, (P.L. 104-121, March 29,1996, as amended by P.L.110-128, May 25, 2007).


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IntroductionAgencies are required to prepare and publish one ormore guides to assist small entities in complying withregulations for which an agency is required to prepare aregulatory flexibility analysis. (See the Small BusinessRegulatory Enforcement Fairness Act, (P.L. 104-121,March 29, 1996, as amended by the P.L.110-128, May 25,2007).)

This Small Entity Compliance Guide (SECG) is intended to help small businesses comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s(OSHA) Respiratory Protection standard (63 FR 1152;January 8, 1998). While the guide is for small entities,the guide itself is not small. OSHA’s goal for this document is to provide small entities with a compre-hensive step-by-step guide complete with checklistsand commonly asked questions that will aid both employees and employers in small businesses with abetter understanding of OSHA’s respiratory protectionstandard. The reader should be advised that OSHA alsohas other shorter documents and visual aids that maybe used to better understand respiratory protection andthe OSHA standard itself. That information can befound on OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov.

If the employees of a small business are only exposed to nuisance dusts and relatively non-toxicchemicals and use only a few types of relatively simplerespirators, knowledge of the guide and materials supplied by the respirator manufacturer may be sufficient for the small business owner or an employeeto become qualified as a program administrator. If more dangerous chemicals or high exposures are present, or sophisticated respirators are used, the program administrator must have more knowledge orexperience. In these circumstances, it may be neces-sary for the administrator to seek out the expertiseneeded or to obtain appropriate training.

OSHA’s original Respiratory Protection standard wasadopted in 1971 from an existing American NationalStandards Institute (ANSI) standard. On October 5,1998, OSHA issued a revised standard that updated and replaced that 1971 standard. At that time, in 1998,OSHA reserved the definition under (d) (respirator selection) for the Assigned Protection Factors (APFs),and Maximum Use Concentrations (MUCs) and Table I:Assigned Protection Factors values until further rule-making was completed.

In addition, the revised 1998 Respiratory Protectionstandard included a new provision that allowed the development of new fit tests. In compliance with thisprovision, OSHA approved and adopted an additionalquantitative fit testing protocol, the controlled negativepressure (CNP) REDON fit testing protocol, in 2004. (SeeAppendix A of the standard.)

In August 2006, OSHA again revised the standard byadding definitions for APF and MUC and a table (TableI) of APF values. This guide provides a discussion ofthese APF provisions and their role in the overall Respiratory Protection standard.

History of OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard

Year Event

1971 The existing American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard adopted as OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard

1998 OSHA’s Final Revised Respiratory Protection Standard (Assigned Protection Factors reserved)

2004 CNP REDON Fit Test Approved for Use

2006 Final Assigned Protection Factors Rulemaking (APF) including APFs, MUCs, Table I: Assigned Protection Factors (71 Fed. Reg. 50122)

OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard specifiesonly the minimum requirements for an effective respiratory protection program. Under the standard,OSHA may require you to establish a respiratory protection program when exposure to an airborne contaminant or to low oxygen levels can cause illnessor injury to an employee and when these health effectscan be prevented by the use of adequate engineeringand administrative controls and/or the appropriate selection and use of a respirator. OSHA may also require you to establish a respiratory protection program while these engineering and administrativecontrols are being installed or maintained and repaired,or for emergencies. You are encouraged to exceedthese minimum criteria if doing so enhances the safetyand health of your employees. This SECG provides asample respirator program to guide small business ad-ministrators. (See Attachment 4 of this guide.)

This document is advisory in nature, informationalin content, and is intended to assist employers by usingplain English to explain each provision of the standard,whenever possible. However, technical terms that applyto respiratory protection have legal definitions, as setforth in the Respiratory Protection standard. In thisguide, whenever these terms are used, they are usedonly as they are legally defined. A list of these termscan be found under (b)(definitions) of the RespiratoryProtection standard. A copy of the standard is includedin this guide under Attachment 3.

The Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR1910.134) establishes, in one place, the required program for properly selecting and using respirators.All mandatory respirator use is covered by the Respiratory Protection standard. The Respiratory

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Protection standard also applies to: Shipyards (29 CFR1915.154); Marine Terminals (29 CFR 1917.92); Longshoring (29 CFR 1918.102); and, Construction (29 CFR 1926.103). The final standard covers required respiratory protection for use against hazardous airborneworkplace exposures, including biological hazards.

The audience for this guideYou should read this guide if it is likely that you willneed to establish and implement a respiratory protection program for your business. This guide is intended to assist program administrators, employerswho need to develop a program, employees who maybe required to wear respirators, and licensed medicalprofessionals who must evaluate an employee's abilityto wear respirators, among others.

Program administrators need to develop a writtenrespiratory protection program that covers proceduresfor the use of respirators in any work area in which employees are exposed to airborne hazards. This guideprovides information on procedures that will help theadministrator develop a program for the particularworkplace. The program needs to cover each provisionof the standard. All required elements of the respiratoryprotection program must be in writing unless a particular element does not apply to your workplace.For example, if no employees volunteer to wear respirators, then the program administrator does notneed to develop procedures for that type of respiratoruse. Employees themselves will find useful informationin this guide on training and medical examinations. Licensed healthcare providers will find additional information in this guide on the timing of medical examinations and follow-up exams for employees whouse respirators, as well as information about the typesof respirators that are available.

This document provides guidance only, and doesnot alter or determine compliance responsibilities,which are set forth in the Occupational Safety andHealth (OSH) Act (29 U.S.C. 655). The guide does not replace the official Respiratory Protection standard (29CFR 1910.134). A copy of the Respiratory Protectionstandard is provided in Attachment 3 of this guide. Youmust refer to the standard to ensure compliance. Listsof appendices for this guide and for the RespiratoryProgram standard are provided under “How to use thisguide.”

There are two limitations to the use of this guide.First, interpretations and enforcement policy maychange over time. To stay up-to-date on interpretationsand enforcement policies, you should consult currentadministrative interpretations and decisions by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commissionand the courts for additional guidance on OSHA compliance requirements. And second, new fit testsmay be approved through Section 6(b)(7) rulemaking.

In 27 states and territories, occupational respiratoryrequirements are enforced by the state agency respon-sible for the OSHA-approved State Plan. These statesare: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa,Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada,New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Puerto Rico,South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia,Washington, and Wyoming. Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, and the Virgin Islands operateOSHA-approved State Plans that apply to state andlocal government employees only.

State Plan states are required to adopt and enforcerespiratory protection standards that are either identical to or at least as effective as the Federal OSHAstandards. These states are also required to extend thecoverage of their respiratory protection standard tostate and local government employees, including paid,and in some states, volunteer firefighters who are otherwise not covered by the Federal standard. The information in this guide should be equally applicableto you if you are located in a State Plan state, althoughyou should check to see if there are any unique or additional requirements that may apply.

How to use this guide

This guide is divided into the same sections that appearin the final Respiratory Protection standard. (See Attach-ment 3.) The organization of the guide follows the sameorganization as the corresponding provision of thestandard, proceeding from paragraph (a)(PermissiblePractice) to mandatory appendices of the RespiratoryProtection standard (§ 1910.134.) A special feature ofthe electronic version of this guide on OSHA’s webpageis included in the Table of Contents. This feature allowsyou to “click” on the section of interest to you in theTable of Contents and go directly to that portion of theguide.

References to the appendices to the Respiratory Protection standard are in italics in the text of thisguide.

§ 1910.134 Respiratory Protection StandardSection (a) – Permissible PracticeSection (b) – DefinitionsSection (c) – Respiratory Protection ProgramSection (d) – Respirator SelectionTable I: Assigned Protection FactorsTable II: Oxygen Deficient AtmospheresSection (e) – Medical EvaluationSection (f) – Fit TestingSection (g) – Use of RespiratorsSection (h) – Maintenance and Care of RespiratorsSection (i) – Breathing Air Quality and UseSection (j) – Identification of Filters, Cartridges

and Canisters


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Section (k) – Training and InformationSection (l) – Program EvaluationSection (m) – RecordkeepingSection (n) – Effective datesSection (o) – Appendices

The appendices to the Respiratory Protection standard are:Appendix A to § 1910.134: Fit Testing Procedures

(Mandatory) Part I. OSHA-Accepted Fit Test Protocols

Table A-1: CNP REDON Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol

Part II. New Fit Test ProtocolsAppendix B-1 to § 1910.134: User Seal Check

Procedures (Mandatory) Appendix B-2 to § 1910.134: Respirator Cleaning

Procedures (Mandatory) Appendix C to § 1910.134: OSHA Respirator Medical

Evaluation Questionnaire (Mandatory) Part A. Section 1. (Mandatory) Part A. Section 2. (Mandatory)

Appendix D to § 1910.134: Information for Employees Using Respirators When Not Required Under the Standard (Mandatory)

The attachments in this guide are:Attachment 1 – the glossary and list of definitions from

the Assigned Protection Factor rule Attachment 2 – a complete set of the checklists used in

this guideAttachment 3 – a copy of the Respiratory Protection

standardAttachment 4 – a Sample ProgramAttachment 5 – NIOSH MultiVapor InformationAttachment 6 – NIOSH tables of cartridges and

canisters by APFs (modified to OSHA’s APFs)

Citations to the standard provided in each sectionenable you to compare the text in this guide with thestandard. (See Attachment 3 of this guide for a copy ofthe Respiratory Protection standard.) For example, toreview the new assigned protection factors and maxi-mum use concentrations in the final standard, at(d)(3)(ii)(A)-(B), it might be useful to know that you willneed to begin with section (d) and proceed through(d)(1) and (d)(2) to (d)(3) and then through (d)(3)(i) to(d)(3)(ii), and so forth.

Citation for Assigned Protection Factors and Maximum Use Concentrations, underparagraph (d) Selection of RespiratorsCitation to the standard Name of Section in Standard Small Entity Compliance Guide

Paragraph (d)(1)-(2) Respirator Selection Employers need to know specific information on: NIOSH certification, unknown exposures; workplace factors; user factors, the two major types of respirators; respirators for oxygen deficient, and other IDLH atmospheres.

Table II: Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres, is described in (d)(2).

Paragraph (d)(3)-(d)(3)(i) Respirators for non-IDLH atmospheres When providing respirators, employers must provide respiratorsthat are adequate to protect employee health and ensure compliance with all other OSHA requirements under routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations.

Paragraph (d)(3)(i)(A) Respirators for IDLH atmospheres Employers need to know specific instructions on how to selectrespirators using Table I. Assigned Protection Factors.

(A) Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) Table I. Assigned Protection Factors is described in this paragraph.

Employers must use the assigned protection factors listed in Table I to select a respirator that meets or exceeds the required level of employee protection.

Paragraph (d)(3)(i)(B) Respirators for IDLH atmospheres The employee’s exposure must be at or below the MUC when the exposure is measured outside the respirator. Instructions on

Maximum Use Concentrations (MUCs) how to select respirators using MUCs, including the limitations of MUCs, are provided.

Paragraph (d)(3)(ii)-(iv) Respirator selection for chemical and physical form of contaminant, and other provisions.

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In the final Respiratory Protection standard, Table I:Assigned Protection Factors is at the end of section(d)(3)(iv). From this example, it is clear that major provisions, such as those covering APFs and MUCs, areactually subparagraphs of the larger selection citationprovision for non-IDLH hazards. It is these citations tothe standard that are included in the text of this guide,as appropriate.

Respiratory protection equipment

Respirators are devices that protect employees from inhaling harmful substances, including chemical, biological, and radiological agents. These substancescan be in the form of airborne vapors, gases, dust, fogs,fumes, mists, smokes, or sprays. Some respirators alsoensure that employees do not breathe air that containsdangerously low levels of oxygen or that is otherwiseimmediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH), (e.g.,life-threatening exposures during interior structural firefighting.) Respirators may be used to provide protection during routine operations where engineeringcontrols and work practices are not able to provide sufficient protection from these hazards, or in emergencies.

In situations in which employees are exposed toharmful airborne hazards, respirators must “seal off”and isolate the user’s respiratory system from the contaminated environment. The risk that a user will experience an adverse health outcome when relying on respiratory protection is a function of the toxicity or hazardous nature of the air contaminants present, theconcentrations of the contaminants in the air, the duration of exposure, and the degree of isolation provided by the respirator. When respirators fail or do not provide the degree of protection expected by the user, the user is placed at an increased risk of any adverse health effects that are associated with exposureto the respiratory hazards present. Furthermore, themargin for error in IDLH atmospheres is slight or nonexistent because an equipment malfunction or employee mistake can, without warning, expose theemployee to an atmosphere incapable of supportinghuman life. Such exposure may disable the employeeand require an immediate rescue if the employee’s lifeis to be saved. Therefore, it is critical that respirators areproperly selected and used in compliance with the Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134).

Respirators provide protection from respiratory hazards only when they are properly selected and usedin compliance with the Respiratory Protection standard(29 CFR 1910.134 and 29 CFR 1926.103). The final Respiratory Protection standard applies to general

industry, construction, longshoring, shipyard, and marine terminal workplaces. A copy of the standard isprovided in Attachment 3.

Atmosphere-supplying respirators are used to provide breathing air from a source independent of theambient atmosphere. Respirators that supply breathingair are generally used in highly hazardous work environments. It is critical that such respirator systemsprovide breathing air of optimal quality and that theequipment operates reliably.

The two types of such equipment are:

• Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units, for which air is supplied from a tank (a cylinder ofcompressed air or oxygen). For this type of respira-tor, the source of the breathing air is designed to betransported by or with the equipment user.

• Supplied-air respirators (SARs) (also known as air-line respirators), which receive air from a connectinghose. The source of air is either a pressurized cylinder or an air compressor. Because the employee does not carry the air on his or her backwhen using a SAR, breathing air can be providedover a longer time period than is the case with anSCBA.

Examples of atmosphere-supplying respirators withtight-fitting facepieces and positive pressure character-istics include:

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), supplied-air respirator (SAR) and full elastomericfacepiece;

Abrasive-blasting SAR in the continuous mode andfull elastomeric facepiece; and

Supplied-air respirator (SAR) with an escape bottleand full elastomeric facepiece.

Pressure-demand respirators are positive pressureatmosphere-supplying respirators that admit breathingair to the facepiece when the positive pressure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.

An air-purifying respirator (APR) is a respiratorwhich removes contaminants from the air. An atmosphere-supplying respirator, or Supplied-air respirator (SAR), is one which provides clean breathingair from an uncontaminated source.

Elastomeric facepieces include facepieces madefrom Natural or Synthetic Rubber (e.g., EPDM); EPDM is an acronym for a specific type of rubber; that is, Ethylene propylene diene M-class rubber.


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OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard

The Respiratory Protection standard requires employ-ers to establish and maintain a respiratory protectionprogram to protect their respirator-wearing employees.OSHA revised the original 1971 Respiratory Protectionstandard in 1998. The new standard incorporates scientific principles and technologies that emergedsince 1971. Because of advances in technology, manyareas covered by the previous standard had becomeoutdated.

The final revision of the Respiratory Protection standard is intended to:

• Enhance the protection of employee health.

• Promote more effective use of respirators.

• Make it easier for you to comply with its provisions.

• Make it easier to understand the policy and proce-dures you must follow when implementing a respi-ratory protection program.

• Supersede most respiratory provisions in existingstandard.

The Respiratory Protection Program

A respiratory protection program is a cohesive collection of written worksite-specific procedures andpolicies that, taken together, address all respiratory protection elements required by the standard. For example, a respiratory protection program must contain specific procedures describing how respiratorswill be selected, fitted, used, maintained and inspectedin a particular workplace. Section (c) of this guide

contains more information on respiratory protectionprograms.

When respirators are used during operations whereexposures exceed OSHA’s permissible exposure limit(PEL), use of properly functioning respirators is essen-tial to ensure that employees are not placed at signifi-cant risk of material impairment of health. Respiratoryprotection is necessary in situations where engineeringand administrative controls are insufficient to reduceairborne hazards, in emergencies, in situations in whichengineering and other controls are being installed ormaintained, in oxygen deficient atmospheres, or for internal structural firefighting. The final Respiratory Protection standard establishes the minimum elementsof a comprehensive program that are necessary to ensure effective performance of a respirator.

When to use the Respiratory Protection Program

Generally, you are required to establish a respiratoryprotection program whenever you or OSHA requiresyour employees to wear respirators. For example, youmay need to establish a respiratory protection program:

• If your employees work in situations where the levelof oxygen is insufficient or potentially insufficient.

• If your employees are potentially exposed to harmful levels of hazardous gases or vapors.

• If your employees are exposed to other potentialrespiratory hazards, such as dust, airborne biological hazards, mists, fumes, sprays, and otherairborne particles.

Examples of an air-purifying respirator and an atmosphere-supplying respirator

Air-purifying respirators (APR) Supplied-air respirators (SAR) orremove contaminants from the air Atmosphere-supplying respirators provide

clean air from an uncontaminated source

Half mask filtering facepiece Self-contained Breathing ApparatusDust Mask (SCBA) Full facepiece Elastomeric

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You need to supply employees with respiratorswhen all preferred methods of protecting them frombreathing contaminated air have been determined to be insufficient to reduce the contamination to non-hazardous levels. You must also consider the potentialfor emergencies, that is, for reasonably foreseeableemergencies, when evaluating the respiratory hazardsin the workplace. These preferred methods include:

• Engineering controls, such as: local or general dilution ventilation, change of the work process, isolation or enclosure, or substitution, and

• Administrative controls, such as: employee rotation,or scheduling major maintenance for weekends ortimes when few employees are present.

If you have any questions about when to supplyyour employees with respirators, refer to the copy ofthe standard in Attachment 3.

Updates to OSHA’s Respiratory ProtectionStandard

In the final Assigned Protection Factor rule, OSHA revised its existing Respiratory Protection standard toadd definitions and requirements for Assigned Protec-tion Factors (APFs) and Maximum Use Concentrations(MUCs). The revisions also supersede the respirator selection provisions of existing substance-specific standards with these new APFs (except for the respira-tor selection provisions of the 1, 3-Butadiene Standard).As part of the final Assigned Protection Factor rule, pertinent provisions of the substance-specific standardsthat were superseded were modified in each individualsubstance-specific standard to make clear where theRespiratory Protection standard is to be followed,thereby reducing any confusion when referring to thosesubstance-specific standards.

The Agency developed the final APFs after thoroughly reviewing the available literature, includingchamber simulation studies and workplace protectionfactor studies, comments submitted to the record, andhearing testimony. The final APFs provide employerswith critical information to use when selecting respirators for employees exposed to atmospheric contaminants found in general industry, construction,shipyards, longshoring, and marine terminal work-places. Proper respirator selection using APFs is an important component of an effective respiratory protection program. Accordingly, OSHA concludes thatthe final APFs are necessary to protect employees whomust use respirators to protect them from airborne contaminants.

Major new provisions and other non-mandatorychanges included in the final standard.The Respiratory Protection standard has been updatedand now includes the following important new provision:

• Assigned Protection Factors (APFs), Maximum UseConcentrations (MUCs), and APF Table I.

And other changes:

• New fit test procedures – Controlled Negative Pressure REDON (CNP REDON)

Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) and Maximum UseConcentrations (MUCs)OSHA published the final Respiratory Protection standard in January 1998, and reserved the APF provisions, (i.e., the APF and MUC definitions and theTable of APFs) (63 FR 1203). The rulemaking on the reserved APFs of the Respiratory Protection standardwas completed on August 24, 2006 (71 FR 50122). Therule amends 29 CFR 1910.134(d)(3)(i)(A) and (d)(3)(i)(B)of the Respiratory Protection standard by specifying aset of APFs for each class of respirators. The new provisions for APFs, MUCs, and Table I cover selectionprocedures for respiratory protection. These proceduresare discussed in more detail in the following section onrespirator selection. The APFs specify the highest multiple of a contaminant’s permissible exposure limit(PEL) at which an employee can use a respirator.

New Fit Test Procedures - Controlled Negative PressureREDON (CNP REDON)The 1998 revised Respiratory Protection standard allowed the development of new fit tests. This provisionis contained in Part II of Appendix A of the standard. Acopy of the Respiratory Protection standard is providedin this guide under Attachment 3. This provision fornew fit test procedures specified, in part, the procedureindividuals must follow to submit new fit testing protocols for the Agency’s consideration. In compliancewith this provision, OSHA has approved and hasadopted an additional quantitative fit testing protocol,the controlled negative pressure (CNP) REDON fit test-ing protocol, for inclusion in Appendix A of the Respiratory Protection standard. (69 FR 46986) (SeeSection (f) of this guide.)

The benefits of the Respiratory ProtectionStandard

The updated standard now provides:

• A complete set of definitions that will eliminate confusion about terminology and how these terms


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apply to respirators and their use. (See: Attachment 1of this guide (APF Glossary of Definitions); and thedefinitions under Section (b) of the standard).

• Criteria for selecting respirators. (See Section (d) ofthis guide.)

• General information

• Assigned Protection Factors

• Table I: Assigned Protection Factors

• Maximum Use Concentrations

When issuing the 1998 rule, OSHA estimated thatcompliance with the standard would prevent hundredsof deaths and thousands of illnesses in U.S. workplaceseach year (63 FR 1173). The APFs in the final rulemakinghelp ensure that these benefits are achieved, as well asprovide an additional degree of protection. These newAPFs reduce employee exposures in some instances toseveral Section (6)(b)(5) chemicals covered by standardswith outdated APF criteria, thereby reducing exposuresto chemicals such as asbestos, lead, cotton dust, and arsenic. While the Agency did not quantify these benefits, it estimated that thousands of employeeswould have a higher degree of respiratory protectionunder this APF standard. The Respiratory Protectionstandard has been determined to be economically andtechnologically feasible for covered industries.

In addition to health benefits, OSHA believes thatother benefits result from the harmonization of APFspecifications, thereby making compliance with the respirator rule easier for employers. Employers nolonger have to consult several sources and severalOSHA standards to determine the best choice of respirator, but can make their choices based on a single,easily found regulation. In addition to having only oneset of numbers (i.e., APFs) to assist them with respiratorselection for nearly all substances, some employers maybe able to streamline their respirator stock by using onerespirator class to meet their respirator needs instead of several respirator classes. The increased ease of compliance also yields additional health benefits to employees using respirators.

The revised APFs clarify when employers can safelyplace employees in respirators that impose less stresson the cardiovascular system (e.g., filtering facepiecerespirators). Many of these alternative respirators mayhave the additional benefit of being less expensive topurchase and operate. OSHA estimated that over 15,000employees used respirators that fall into this group (i.e.,employees that may safely shift to a less expensive respirator).

Points of Contact for additional information

For additional assistance in establishing and imple-menting a respiratory protection program, contact theOSHA area office nearest you. If you are unable to contact your local OSHA area office, you may contactthe appropriate OSHA regional office for information orassistance. A list of OSHA regional offices is at page 118.

Section (a): Permissible practiceWhen engineering controls are not feasible, or whileengineering controls are being put in place, appropriaterespirators must be used.

(a)(1) Engineering controls

To prevent illness or diseases caused by breathing hazardous air in the workplace, you must use engineering controls to the extent feasible to preventcontamination of the workplace atmosphere. When engineering controls are not feasible, or while engineering controls are being put in place, appropriaterespirators must be used.

How to know if the atmosphere in your workplace ishazardous

An atmosphere is hazardous if it does not contain sufficient oxygen, or if it contains chemical, biological,or radiological contaminants in sufficient quantity toharm the health of employees. Section (d) of this guidecontains information on how to identify and evaluaterespiratory hazards in your workplace.

What are engineering and administrative controls?

Engineering controls physically change the work environment to reduce employee exposure to air contaminants. Such engineering controls may include:

• Change of the work process

• Isolation or enclosure of the work process or of employees

• Local exhaust or general dilution ventilation

• Substitution of less hazardous substances for harmful materials

Administrative controls involve changes in the length of time or the time of day in which an employee can be exposed. Examples of administrative controls are:

• Employee rotation

• Rescheduling work in area to times when air contaminant levels are low

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What guidance is available on the type of engineering andadministrative controls that may need to be put in place?

Potential sources for this type of information include:

• Trade associations.

• Manufacturers or suppliers of materials or equipmentassociated with the creation of air contaminants.

• Your workers’ compensation insurance carrier.

• OSHA Consultation Program (See http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/consult.html) for the list of:

- states with consultation programs

- industrial hygiene consultants.

(a)(2) Providing employees with respirators

You must provide respirators when such equipment isnecessary to protect the health of employees. The respirator provided must be suitable for its intendedpurpose. When you are required to provide respirators,you must establish and maintain a respiratory protection program.

The requirements for a respiratory protection program are described in Section (c) of this guide.

How do I know if the Respiratory Protection standardapplies to me?

You should use the information collected through thesteps covered in paragraph (a)(1) to determine whetherthe Respiratory Protection standard applies to you. For example, information on the type and levels of hazardous airborne exposures in your workplace andon the engineering and administrative controls available to you should be used when evaluating theneed for a respirator program.

The vendor who supplies your engineering controlsmay be able to help you determine whether the controlswill adequately protect your employees from respira-tory hazards. You must evaluate the level of contami-nation in your workplace after the engineering controlsare installed, as explained in Section (d) of this guide.

How do I know what type of respirator is suitable forprotecting the employees’ health?

Proper selection of respiratory protection equipment involves the evaluation of the workplace environment,types of job functions that are performed in the workplace, identification of reasonably foreseeableemergencies, employee health conditions, and uniquefacial characteristics that may affect proper use. Section(d) of this guide provides further information about selecting a suitable respirator.

CHECKLIST FOR PERMISSIBLE PRACTICE

√ Check all that apply:

Hazard Determination

Is there a hazardous atmosphere in your workplace,which has (check all that apply):

q Insufficient oxygen

q Harmful levels of chemical, biological, or radiological contaminants

q Known and reasonably foreseeable emergencies related to...

q Unknown exposure levels or exposures to substances without an OSHA PEL

If you did not check any of the boxes above, the Respiratory Protection standard does not apply toyour workplace.

If you checked any of the boxes above, the Respira-tory Protection standard may apply to your work-place.

OSHA requires use of the following methods to con-trol the hazardous atmosphere(s) in your workplace:

q Engineering controls, such as ventilation, isolationor enclosure of the work process, or substitution ofnon-hazardous materials for the materials that poserespiratory hazards; and

q Administrative controls, such as worker rotation,or scheduling major maintenance for weekends ortimes when few workers are present.

When engineering controls are not feasible, or while engineering controls are being installed ormaintained, or whenever there is an emergency, appropriate respirators must be used.

Does your workplace have (check the box to indicateyes, and check all that apply):

q Sufficient engineering controls to prevent illnessor diseases caused by breathing hazardous air in theworkplace

q Sufficient administrative controls to prevent illness

If you did not check both of the boxes above, the Respiratory Protection standard does apply toyour workplace, and you must develop a written respiratory protection program that is specific to your workplace.


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Additionally, you are required to ensure that certainrequirements of the respiratory protection program arefollowed by employees who wear a respirator voluntar-ily (that is, they wear respirators even though respiratoruse is not required by either you or OSHA).

(c)(1) Program development and implementation

You are required to develop and implement a writtenrespiratory protection program and to update it as necessary.

Program DevelopmentYou must develop a written respiratory protection program that includes procedures for the use of respirators in any work area where protection from airborne hazards is required. The procedures in yourprogram must be specific to your particular workplace.All required elements of the respiratory protection program must be in writing.

Why a written program?The program must be in writing because health and safety programs are usually more effectivelyimplemented and evaluated if the procedures are available in a written form for study and review. Also, awritten respiratory protection program is the best wayto ensure that the unique characteristics of the worksiteare taken into account. Developing the written programencourages you to thoroughly assess and document information pertaining to respiratory hazards posed toyour employees both during normal operating condi-tions and during reasonably foreseeable emergencies.Program ContentYou are required to include procedures for the followingelements (as applicable) in your respiratory protectionprogram:

• Selecting appropriate respirators for use in theworkplace.

• Training employees in the proper use of respirators(including putting them on and removing them), thelimitations on their use, and their maintenance.

• Providing medical evaluation of employees whomust use respirators.

• Fit testing tight-fitting respirators.

• Using respirators properly in routine situations aswell as in reasonably foreseeable emergencies.

• Ensuring adequate air supply, quantity, and flow ofbreathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators.

• Establishing and adhering to schedules for cleaning,disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, removingfrom service or discarding, and otherwise maintain-ing respirators.

Is employee rotation acceptable as an interim administrative control while engineering control measures are being developed and implemented?

Rotation is an acceptable practice for less-toxic contaminants. It is never permitted for protectionagainst cancer-causing substances. In addition, many of OSHA’s substance-specific health standards containceiling limits that may limit the use of employee rotation. If respirators are also necessary to protect thehealth of the employee while engineering controls arebeing developed, they must be provided.

Section (b): DefinitionsThis section of the Respiratory Protection standard contains definitions of terms used in the text of thestandard. The definitions clarify the requirements of the standard. The definitions from the final RespiratoryProtection standard (63 FR 1152; January 8, 1998), andfrom the final Assigned Protection Factors standard (71 FR 50122; August 24, 2006), have been combinedunder Attachment 1 to facilitate ease of use.

The terms are contained in paragraph (b) of thestandard. The full text of the final Respiratory Protectionstandard (63 FR 1152), with the new definitions andTable of APF values (Assigned Protection Factors standard), 71 FR 50122, is provided in Attachment 3.

As OSHA developed this Small Entity ComplianceGuide, the sections were written using the terms fromthe standard. As you review this document, if you haveany questions about a term that is used, you should review the definition of the term in Attachment 1 to clarify exactly what is being discussed. The terms Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) and Employee Exposure are both defined (see Attachment 1 of thisguide.) PELs are OSHA’s enforceable exposure limit values and should not be confused with thresholdlimit/exposure limit values (TLVs) or recommended exposure limits (RELs). These and other terms from theAPF standard can be found in Attachment 1 of thisguide.

Section (c): Respiratory protection programWhenever respirator use is required by the employer orby OSHA, this section of the Respiratory Protectionstandard dictates that the employer must:

• Develop a written respiratory protection programwith procedures that are specific to your worksite;

• Implement the program and update it as necessary;and

• Assign a qualified program administrator to run andevaluate the program.

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• Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the program.

The checklist in this section on establishing a writtenrespiratory protection program at page 16 provides aquick list to use for guidance on the required content ofthe respiratory protection program.

Program Implementation and UpdatingOnce you have established a written program that covers all the required elements that apply to yourworkplace, you then must ensure that the program isappropriately implemented. Implementation of the program must be administered and overseen by yourprogram administrator.

Once your program has been implemented youmust ensure that it is updated as necessary to reflectrelevant changes in the workplace. That is, you need torevise the elements of the program that have been affected by changes that relate to respiratory hazards in work areas. For example, you need to revise the appropriate sections of your written program if newprocesses or new chemicals are introduced into theworkplace that could impact respirator use.

In addition, if you make any changes in the types of respirators used or in any of the other elements ofthe respiratory protection program, you must make appropriate revisions to the written program and ensure that they are implemented.

(c)(2) Where respirator use is not required

Voluntary use is when an employee chooses to wear a respirator even though the use of a respirator is notrequired by either you or by an OSHA standard.

What is meant by voluntary use of respirator equipment?Where respirator use is not required, you must ensurethat all employees who use a respirator voluntarily are provided with certain basic information on proper respirator use. Additionally, you must ensure that employees are included in your program provisions formedical evaluations, and for cleaning, storage, andmaintenance of respirators, as applicable.

Providing basic information to voluntary respiratorusersYou may allow an employee to use a respirator volun-tarily if you determine that the respirator itself will notpresent: a hazard to the employee due to misuse; otherhazards or conditions in the workplace; or a hazard toan individual employee, based on medical conditions.In such cases, you may provide employees with respirators or allow them to use their own respiratoryprotection. (See (c)(2) of the standard.) If you allowsuch use of a respirator, you must provide the voluntary

respirator user with the advisory information in Appendix D of the standard. This appendix providesbasic information on the proper use of respirators foremployees who are voluntary users of the equipmentand thus are not required to undergo training. Theseprecautions can be presented to the employee eitherverbally or in a written form. (See section (k) of thisguide on Training and information.)

Applicable components of the respiratory protectionprogramYou must ensure that the following elements of yourrespiratory protection program are implemented forvoluntary respirator users:

(i) If filtering facepieces are the only respirator beingworn voluntarily, you are only required to provide theemployee with a copy of Appendix D and make surethat the respirator itself is not creating a hazard, such as dermatitis from a dirty respirator.

(ii) Elements of the program that apply to voluntaryusers (using respirators other than filtering facepieces(i.e., dust masks) involve:

• Provisions for medical evaluation of employees.

• Establishing and adhering to schedules for cleaning,disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, removingfrom service or discarding, and otherwise maintain-ing respirators.

Implementation of the elements of the program for a voluntary respirator user will ensure that the respirator is used properly and does not create a hazardto the user.

• A dirty respirator could cause dermatitis.

• A dirty or poorly disinfected respirator could causean unnecessary inhalation hazard.

• A respirator wearer’s health could be jeopardizeddue to an undetected medical condition (e.g.,asthma, heart condition.)

What types of respirators do the voluntary use requirements apply to?This requirement applies primarily to tight-fitting negative pressure APRs, but would also apply to powered APRs if an employee elected to voluntarily use this type of respirator.

Do I need to have a written respiratory protection program if only voluntary users wear respirators at my facility?No, if the only respirators being worn voluntarily are filtering facepieces (dust masks).

Yes, if other respirators, such as elastomeric APRs orpowered APRs, are being used voluntarily. In this case,


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your written program needs to include only the elements that pertain to voluntary users, e.g., a sectionon medical evaluations, and one on inspection, care,and maintenance.

When employees choose to voluntarily use respira-tors in the workplace, you must provide the employeewith a copy of the mandatory document found in Appendix D of the standard.

Who is responsible for any costs associated with voluntary use of a respirator?You are not required to pay for filtering facepiece respirators used voluntarily by employees.

If the employer determines that any voluntary respirator use is permissible, the employer must provide the respirator users with the information contained in Appendix D of the standard (“Informationfor Employees Using Respirators When Not RequiredUnder the Standard.”)

If you permit the use of respirators other than filtering facepieces, you must pay for required medicalevaluations for voluntary users and provide voluntaryusers with appropriate facilities and time to clean, disinfect, maintain, and store respirators.

(c)(3) Program administrator

You must designate a program administrator to run theprogram and evaluate its effectiveness.

An individual is qualified to be a program administrator if he or she has appropriate training orexperience in accord with the program’s level of complexity. This training or experience is appropriate if it enables the program administrator to fulfill the minimum requirements of recognizing, evaluating, andcontrolling the hazards in your workplace. For example,if your program requires air-supplying respirators foruse in immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH)environments, your program administrator must havetraining and experience pertaining to the use of thistype of equipment. Similarly, if you do not use air-supplying respirators and do not have significant respiratory hazards at your workplace, someone withless experience or training might be able to effectivelyserve in this position.

Ultimately, the appropriate qualifications for yourprogram administrator must be determined based onthe particular respiratory hazards that exist, or that arereasonably anticipated, at your workplace.

How do I, or a designated employee, become a qualified program administrator?If your workers are exposed only to nuisance dusts andrelatively low-toxicity materials, and they use only a few

types of relatively simple respirators, knowledge of thisguide and materials supplied by the manufacturer maybe sufficient for you, or a designated employee, toserve as the program administrator.

If more dangerous substances are present, if the potential for high exposures exists, or if more complexrespirators are used, the program administrator musthave more extensive experience and/or training. Inthese circumstances, you may need to seek out the expertise needed or obtain appropriate training.

Is there a list of approved training courses my programadministrator can attend?No, OSHA does not provide a training course specifically to train respiratory protection program administrators, nor does OSHA require program administrators to attend a specified course. OSHA only requires the program administrator to have an adequate level of training or experience to deal with the complexity of the respiratory protection program at the worksite.

You may want to check with trade associations oradult education programs run by universities or techni-cal and vocational schools in your area. The OSHA Consultation Program can help you identify appropriatetraining courses, or, if you hire a consultant to help youwith your respiratory protection program, he or shemay be able to provide training.

How will OSHA determine that a person is experiencedand/or trained to be a respiratory protection programadministrator?Usually, the OSHA compliance officer will review thewritten program and interview the respiratory protec-tion program administrator. Questions asked during theinterview are likely to focus on determining how famil-iar the program administrator is with the OSHA Respi-ratory Protection standard and the use and applicationof the respirators at the particular workplace. Significantdeficiencies in the written program also could indicate alack of training and understanding of the standard.

Only one person can fulfill the primary responsibili-ties of running the program, unless your company has more than one worksite. In that case, you may have a program administrator for each site. Ordinarily,however, you cannot divide the responsibilities amongseveral employees. Requiring an administrator withsole responsibility helps ensure the integrity of the pro-gram by maintaining continuous oversight from oneperson. Nonetheless, the administrator may rely onother employees to help run parts of the respiratoryprotection program (e.g., fit testing, medical evaluations).

One of the program administrator’s primary respon-sibilities is to evaluate the program. Although OSHA

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recognizes the value of an objective assessment, theAgency did not want to burden small businesses withthe cost of arranging for an outside party to conduct the evaluations, and the standard, therefore, allows program administrators to perform the program evaluations required under the standard.

(c)(4) Employer-provided respirators

You must provide respirators, training, and medicalevaluations at no cost to employees who are requiredto wear a respirator for protection from respiratory hazards at your workplace. This requirement reflectsthe philosophy that employers are obligated to provide

and pay for necessary personal protective equipment(such as respirators) used by employees on the job.

Section (d): Respirator selectionThis paragraph requires the employer to evaluate respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace, identify relevantworkplace and user factors, and base respirator selection on these factors. The paragraph also specifiesrespirators for use in IDLH atmospheres, and limits theselection and use of air-purifying respirators.

(d)(1)(i) General guidelines for selection

You must base selections of respirators on the hazardsto which your employees are exposed and must consider how workplace and user factors affect respirator performance and reliability.

What are workplace and user factors?Workplace factors refer to the actual workplace facilityand its geographic characteristics, among other factors.User factors refer to the distinguishing characteristics ofthe individual employee. Some examples include thefollowing:

• The level of the contaminant in relation to the APF ofavailable respirators

• The conditions of the workplace (e.g., size, configu-ration, temperature, humidity) of the workspace

- Are employees equipped with atmosphere-supplying respirators able to fit into any tightspace in your workplace?

- Would the temperature and humidity affect the ef-fectiveness of filters, cartridges, and other respira-tor parts, as well as the comfort of the wearer?

• Ease of employee communication

- Are your employees wearing respirators able tocommunicate with one another and warn one another of hazards?

• Ease or difficulty of the work or rate of activity

- Are your employees doing heavy lifting that may deplete the air supply of a self-containedbreathing apparatus (SCBA)?

- Would a fast work pace lead to discomfort, causing the employee to move the respirator and, thus, affect the protection afforded by the respirator?

• The type of workplace tasks and proximity to thesource of contamination (e.g., cutting wood on aband saw would differ from hand polishing a woodveneer on furniture.)

- Would hospital emergency medical staff be closeto infectious clients?

CHECKLIST FOR RESPIRATORY PROTECTIONPROGRAMS

√ Does your program contain written procedures for(check all that apply):

q Your specific workplace

q Selecting respirators

q Medical evaluations of employees required to wear respirators

q Fit testing

q Routine and emergency respirator use

q Schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding, and maintaining respirators

q Ensuring adequate air quality for supplied-air respirators

q Training in respiratory hazards

q Training in proper use and maintenance of respirators

q Program evaluation

q Ensuring that employes who voluntarily wear respirators (excluding filtering facepieces) comply with the medical evaluation and cleaning, storing and maintenance requirements of the standard

q A designated program administrator who is qualified to administer the program

q Updating the written program as necessary to account for changes in the workplace affecting respirator use

q Providing equipment, training and medical evaluations at no cost to employees

If you did not check all of the boxes above, your respiratory protection program does not meet OSHAstandards.


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• The location and movement of other personnel andequipment

- Would the mobility of your employees or the presence of moving machinery entangle the airlines of atmosphere-supplying respirators?

(d)(1)(ii) Selected respirator must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth (NIOSH)

All respirators must be certified by NIOSH and used incompliance with the conditions of certification.

(d)(1)(iii) Employers need to identify and evaluateworksite hazards

• Identify the respiratory hazards to which your employees are exposed and evaluate these hazards.

• Determine the state and physical form of the respiratory hazard.

- Are they solids, liquids, or gases?

- Are they particulate, radioactive or chemical substances?

• Estimate or measure employee exposures to thehazards.

• Assume IDLH atmospheres if unable to estimate anemployee’s exposure.

Potential Respiratory Hazards:

Listed below are potential respiratory hazards:

Dusts and fibers are solid particles dispersed into theworkplace atmosphere through mechanical processessuch as crushing, grinding, drilling, abrading, blasting,shaking or physiological processes such as coughing,sneezing. Examples include: silica, metal dust in baghouses, and asbestos. Once an employee’s handsand garments, boots, and respirators are contaminatedwith lead or asbestos, other employees can also be exposed just by handling, or shaking, the contaminatedequipment.

Biological hazards include living organisms such asbacteria (e.g., Legionella pneumophila which causes Legionnaires’ Disease), viruses (e.g., coronavirus whichcauses severe acute respiratory syndrome [SARS]),fungi, and other organisms, as well as dead organismsor parts of organisms. Examples of the latter includeground parts of plants (e.g., flour) and parts of animals(e.g., dead skin cells/dander).

Fumes are solid particles that are formed when a metalor other solid vaporizes and the molecules condense (orsolidify) in cool air. Examples are metal fumes fromsmelting or welding. Fumes also may be formed fromprocesses such as plastic injection or extrusion molding.

Mists are tiny droplets of liquid suspended in the air. Oil mists can be produced from lubricants used inmetal-cutting operations, acid mists from electroplat-ing, and paint-spray mist from spraying operations.

Gases are materials that exist as individual molecules inthe air at room temperature. Examples are weldinggases, such as acetylene and nitrogen, and carbonmonoxide produced from internal combustion engines.

Vapors are the gaseous form of substances that arenormally in the solid or liquid state at room tempera-ture and pressure. They are formed by evaporation.Most solvents produce vapors. Examples includetoluene and methylene chloride.

Suggestions for Measuring or Making “Reasonable” Estimates of Employee Exposures

• Personal monitoring is the most accurate way of ob-taining employee exposure information. Samplingequipment and analytical methods are available forsubstances regulated by OSHA’s Air Contaminantsstandard (29 CFR 1910.1000 and 29 CFR 1926.55).OSHA has specific monitoring requirements for itssubstance-specific standards (e.g., benzene or as-bestos). See subpart Z of 29 CFR parts 1910 and1926, for OSHA’s substance-specific standards.

• If there is no specific monitoring requirement, youcan also estimate exposures by monitoring fixed locations or by sampling for short time periods. Ifyou do this, you should measure under worst-caseconditions to be sure that you are providing ade-quate protection for your employees. For example,even though employees generally move about anddo not spend most of their work shift near thesource of emissions, if you select a respirator basedon a reading obtained from a fixed sample collectedclose to the source of the emission, the respiratorselected is more likely to provide adequate employee protection. Similarly, although processemissions under non-peak conditions will obviouslybe less than at peak conditions, a respirator selectedon the basis of a reading obtained from a spot sam-ple taken when the emissions are highest (when theprocess is operating at peak conditions) is morelikely to provide sufficient protection.

• Data may be available from previous exposuremeasurements. For example, studies may havebeen conducted in your industry. Your trade association may have data, or manufacturers ofproducts or materials used in your workplace mayhave conducted laboratory tests that provide employee exposure data. To generalize from dataobtained from these sources or an industry-widesurvey, however, you must show that the conditions

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that existed in the survey, such as the processes,types of materials, control methods, work practices,and environmental conditions, are similar to thosein your own workplace.

• You should be aware that exposures can be quitevariable from day to day and from employee to employee. It is, therefore, important always to err on the side of over- rather than under-protection.

• You may wish to consult with health and safety professionals in evaluating exposures. However,consultation is not mandatory. The respiratory protection program administrator should have thenecessary qualifications. You can often obtain assis-tance through the OSHA Consultation Program. Alist of Consultation Programs is included under Attachment 2. An additional source of assistancemight be your insurance carrier.

• You may be able to demonstrate, through informa-tion on processes and reasonable assumptionsabout potential maximum use concentrations(MUCs), that IDLH conditions would not occur.Under such a scenario, after a thorough review ofrelevant information, you may be able to place values on the unknown exposures. That is, you may be able to reduce, delineate, or eliminate theunknown exposures. After review of all availablematerial, you need to make reasonable assumptionsand develop conservative estimates. The materialyou used and the assumptions and findings you relied upon in place of a measurement of an employee’s exposures should be in your writtenprogram. If new materials and sources of informa-tion are generated or conditions or processes ortypes of materials used in your processes change, orif new cases of airborne illness occur, you need toreview and possibly update your written program.

If you do not know your employees’ exposure levels

You must consider the worksite atmosphere Immedi-ately Dangerous to Life or Health, (IDLH), and select respirators on that basis. IDLH means an atmospherethat poses an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair anindividual’s ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere (29 CFR 1910.134, paragraph d).

(d)(1)(iv) You must provide a sufficient number ofrespirators to correctly fit the user

A sufficient number of respirator models and sizes mustbe available to employees so that they can find the respirator that is acceptable to, and correctly fits, them.

(d)(2) Respirators for IDLH atmospheres

(d)(2)(i) Types of respirators

Atmospheres that are immediately dangerous to life orhealth (IDLH) require the highest level of respiratoryprotection and reliability. You must provide either of thefollowing for use in IDLH environments:

• Full-facepiece pressure-demand SCBAs that are cer-tified by NIOSH for a minimum service life of 30minutes.

• Combination full-facepiece pressure-demand sup-plied-air respirators with auxiliary self-contained airsupply.

(d)(2)(ii) Respirators for escape from IDLH atmos-pheres must be NIOSH-certified for escape from theatmosphere in which they will be used

For example, for formaldehyde exposures, escape respirators may be full-facepiece with chin style, front,or back-mounted industrial-size canister approved forprotection against formaldehyde (29 CFR 1910.1048 at:http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_ document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=10075).

(d)(2)(iii) You must consider all oxygen deficient atmospheres to be IDLH

Atmosphere-supplying respirators must be used in oxygen deficient atmospheres (where oxygen is lessthan 19.5%). Employers must provide employees withfull-facepiece pressure demand SCBAs or combinationfull-facepiece pressure demand supplied-air respiratorswith auxiliary self-contained air supply. There is an exception that applies to well-controlled atmospheres,where the reason for the oxygen levels being reducedbelow 19.5% is known and the reduced oxygen level is stable and not changing. (You may use any atmos-phere-supplying respirator if you can demonstrate that,under all reasonably foreseeable conditions, the oxygenconcentration in the work area can be maintainedwithin the ranges specified in Table II of 29 CFR1910.134.) (See also Table II.)

Work operations being conducted in well-controlledatmospheres where oxygen levels are deficient (below19.5 percent) are typically permit-required confinedspaces. (See OSHA’s Permit-Required Confined Spacestandard, 29 CFR 1910.146 at: http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table= STANDARDS&p_id=9797.)

(d)(3) Respirators for non-IDLH atmospheres

(d)(3)(i) You must provide respirators that are adequate to protect employee health and ensure


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compliance with all other OSHA requirements underroutine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations

The General Duty Clause of the OSH Act requires you toprotect your employees from all hazardous substances,even those not regulated by OSHA. Consult the Mate-rial Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) sent by your supplier ifyou have questions about the toxicity of a particularsubstance. For further assistance in ascertainingwhether substances used in your workplace that are notregulated by OSHA are hazardous, you may contactOSHA. (See list of OSHA Offices at page 118.)

Other OSHA regulations that might apply includethe Air Contaminants standard, 29 CFR 1910.1000, thesubstance-specific standards, appropriate safety regulations such as the Hazardous Waste Operationsand Emergency Response standard, 29 CFR 1910.120,paragraph (g)(2), and many construction and maritimestandards.

What is a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)?

Employee exposure means exposure to a concentrationof an airborne contaminant that would occur if the employee were not using respiratory protection. OSHApermissible exposure limits (PELs) establish the maximum level of a specific airborne hazard that anemployee can be exposed to, averaged over an 8-hourworkday (8-hour time-weighted average, or TWA) orover a specified portion of a workday (e.g., a 15-minuteshort-term exposure limit, or STEL). Likewise, the actionlevel (AL), which is one-half the PEL, is calculated in thesame manner as the PEL, and is the level at or abovewhich provisions of substance-specific standards canbe triggered. (PELs are listed in 29 CFR 1910.1000, and1926.55. See also the substance-specific standards for general industry, maritime, longshoring, and construction.)

(d)(3)(i)(A) You must select respirators according toAssigned Protection Factors (APF)

Selection of respirators must be made in accordancewith the assigned protection factor (APF) of the respirator, as well as the workplace and exposure factors. (See final APF standard; 71 FR 50122.)

APF means the workplace level of respiratory protec-tion that a respirator or class of respirators is expectedto provide to employees when the employer imple-ments a continuing, effective respiratory protection program as specified by 29 CFR 1910.134.

Employers must use the APFs listed in Table I, at page24, to select a respirator that meets or exceeds the required level of employee protection. When using acombination respirator (e.g., airline respirators with an

air-purifying filter), employers must ensure that the APFis appropriate to the mode of operation in which the respirator is being used.

A copy of the new APF table is provided below, at page24, in section (d) of this guide. Footnote 4 of Table Irelates to the testing of Powered Air-Purifying Respira-tors (PAPRs) and Supplied-air Respirators (SAR) with helmets or hoods to demonstrate that these respiratorscan perform at the higher APF of 1,000 instead of theoverall APF of 25 for this class. As a result of OSHA’srulemaking, the 25/1000 APF is given to some hood/helmet PAPRs and supplied-air respirators (SARs).

(d)(3)(i)(B) You must select respirators after considering the Maximum Use Concentrations inyour workplace under which respirators are used

Maximum use concentration (MUC) means the maximum atmospheric concentration of a hazardoussubstance from which an employee can be expected to be protected when wearing a respirator, and is determined by the assigned protection factor of the respirator or class of respirators and the exposure limitof the hazardous substance. The MUC usually can bedetermined mathematically by multiplying the assignedprotection factor specified for a respirator by the permissible exposure limit, short-term exposure limit,ceiling limit, peak limit, or any other exposure limitused for the hazardous substance. Basically, under theMUC, employers must: (1) select a respirator for employee use that maintains the employee’s exposureto the hazardous substance, when measured outsidethe respirator, at or below the MUC; (2) not apply MUCsto conditions that are immediately dangerous to life orhealth (IDLH); instead, they must use respirators listedfor IDLH conditions in paragraph (d)(2) of the Respira-tory Protection standard; and, (3) set the maximumMUC at that lower limit when the calculated MUC exceeds the IDLH level for a hazardous substance, orthe performance limits of the cartridge or canister.

How to use APFs and MUCs

APFs are used to select the appropriate class of respira-tors that will provide the necessary level of protectionunder routine and reasonably foreseeable emergencysituations. The airborne hazardous exposure can befrom a particulate or a gas or vapor. The APF for theclass of respirators will remain the same. The APF valuecan only be applied to a class of respirators when therespirators are properly selected and used in compli-ance with the Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR1910.134). Also, for gases and vapors, additional car-tridges and canisters may by needed. (see paragraph(d)(3)(iii); see change schedules of this guide.)

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OSHA PELs (permissible exposure limits) establish themaximum level of a specific airborne hazard that anemployee can be exposed to, averaged over an 8-hourworkday (8-hour time-weighted average, or TWA) orover a specified portion of a workday (for example, a15-minute short-term exposure limit, or STEL). (PELsare listed in 29 CFR 1910.1000, and 1926.55. Also seethe substance-specific standards for general industryand construction.)

The MUC for respirators is calculated by multiplying theAPF for the respirator by the PEL. The MUC is theupper exposure limit at which the class of respirator isexpected to provide protection. Whenever the expo-sures approach the MUC, then the employer shouldconsider selecting the next higher class of respiratorsfor the employees.

MUCs for mixtures must satisfy the following equation:

Em = (C1 divided by L1 + C2 divided by L2) +…..(Cn dividedby Ln)

Where:

Em is the equivalent exposure for the mixtureC is the concentration of a particulate contaminantL is the exposure limit for that substanceThe value of Em shall not exceed unity (1).

There are exceptions to this equation, or situationsin which it is inappropriate to use this equation. Examples of such situations are:

• Whenever an APF=10 times the PEL puts the employee into an IDLH atmosphere or puts theminto a lower explosive limit (LEL) situation, then anegative pressure respirator must not be used.

• OSHA does not allow negative pressure respiratorsto be used for methylene chloride (except for emergency escape), so if employees are exposedabove the PEL they are already in violation of themethylene chloride standard [(29 CFR 1910.1052(g)(2)rather than 1910.134(d)(3)(B)]. Using the MUC calculation for a half facepiece negative pressurerespirator used for MeCl would be an example an inappropriate use of the MUC.

• For a mixture of toluene and xylene, a half facepiecerespirator should be allowed to be used in a mixturesituation as long as C1/L1 + C2/L2 was less than Etimes the APF (10), e.g., 300ppm Toluene /100ppmPEL + 650ppm Xylene/100ppm PEL = 9.5, so the respirator could be used “according to the MUC calculation.” However, this concentration would beextremely irritating to the eyes, and a full facepiecewould be more appropriate.

(d)(3)(ii) You must select respirators that are appropriate for the chemical state and physical form of the contaminant

You need different types of filters, cartridges, and canisters depending on whether dusts, fumes, mists,vapors, or gases are present in your workplace and depending on the kinds and concentrations of sub-stances present. (See paragraph (d)(1)(iii).)

(d)(3)(iii) Respiratory protection for gases and vapors

For protection against gases and vapors, employersmust provide:

A. an atmosphere-supplying respirator, or

B. an air-purifying respirator that:

1) has an NIOSH-certified end-of-service-life indica-tor (ESLI), or

2) if there is no ESLI, employers must calculate theservice life of canisters and cartridges for employeeswho are wearing respirators.

You do not want to have situations where the canisters or cartridges become saturated and the gasesor vapors break through, allowing the contaminants to get inside the respirator and into your workers’breathing zones.

What is an end-of-service-life indicator (ESLI)?

An ESLI is a mechanism for warning the user that a respirator is approaching the end of its ability to provide protection. The warning appears on the cartridge itself. For example, after a period of use, an indicator on a cartridge with sorbent material will signalthat protection against organic vapors is approachingsaturation or is no longer effective. (The ESLI for a carbon-monoxide canister involves a color changewhen the sorbent material is exhausted.)

The final standard requires the use of ESLIs where theyare available and appropriate for the employer’s work-place, whether or not warning properties exist for acontaminant. If there is no ESLI available, the employeris required to develop a cartridge/canister changeschedule based on available information and data thatdescribe the service life of the sorbent elements againstthe contaminant present in the employer’s workplaceand that will ensure that sorbent elements are replacedbefore they are exhausted. Reliance on odor thresholdsand other warning properties is not permitted in thefinal rule as the sole basis for determining that an air-purifying respirator will afford adequate protectionagainst exposure to gas and vapor contaminants.

To the extent that NIOSH-certified end of-service-life indicators are available, OSHA finds that there are


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considerable benefits to their use. Thus far, however,NIOSH has only certified ESLIs for a few cartridges orcanisters (for example, mercury vapor, carbon monox-ide, ethylene oxide and hydrogen sulfide). Therefore,employers are more likely to have to establish changeschedules to ensure that cartridges and canisters arechanged before their end-of-service-life.

Why not just rely on the worker’s ability to detect theodor of the substance when the gas or vapor breaksthrough?

You may not rely on the detection of odor as protectionagainst respiratory hazards posed by gases and vaporsbecause:

• Most toxic substances do not have appropriate sensory (odor or irritant) warning properties.

• Some chemicals have odors that are only detectableabove their established exposure limits, meaningthat the employees will smell the chemical only afterthey have already been exposed to unsafe levels ofthe contaminant.

• An individual’s ability to perceive particular odorsmay differ quite markedly from the population average due to any of a variety of innate, chronic, oracute physiological conditions. For example, about10 percent of people have a markedly impairedsense of smell.

• There is no good screening mechanism to identifypersons with sensory-receptor problems. Continuing exposure to the odor usually results indiminution or even disappearance of the smell sensation. This phenomenon is known as olfactoryfatigue. When this happens, the employee unknow-ingly gets used to the contaminant breaking throughthe cartridge/canister and loses the ability to detectits smell.

What must be considered when developing changeschedules?

Employers must develop cartridge-change schedulesbased on available data or information that can be relied upon to ensure that cartridges are changed before the end of their useful service life.

You need to consider the following factors in develop-ing change schedules:

q The contaminants the respirator is to protect against.

q The concentrations of contaminants in the work area.

q Frequency of use (e.g., is the respirator used continuously or intermittently throughout the shift);

q Temperature, humidity and air flow through the cartridge or canister.

q Employees’ work rates.

q The presence of other potentially interfering substances.

You should assume worst-case conditions to avoidbreakthrough earlier than anticipated.

You should document the information relied uponand the basis for the change schedules you use in yourwritten respiratory protection program.

Where can I get help for developing change schedules?

You need to consult with your respirator supplier ormanufacturer for guidance on developing changeschedules specific to your work conditions. Some suppliers have prepared materials that may assist youwith developing change schedules for your worksite.Other possible sources of help include your trade associations, which may be gathering published infor-mation, such as breakthrough test data (i.e., how long ittakes a substance to break through the cartridge or can-ister and get into the facepiece). There is a model (theMultiVapor model) for estimating cartridge and canisterbreakthrough periods for gases and/or vapors. The software is available from NIOSH. (See informationfrom NIOSH on the MultiVapor model at Attachment 5in this guide.)

Furthermore, a specific rule of thumb also will help employers determine cartridge and canister schedules.These are as follows:

Rule of Thumb

Experimental work can allow for a generalization or “rule of thumb” that broadly covers service life ofcartridges exposed to chemicals. One such Rule ofThumb for estimating vapor cartridge service life is found in chapter 36 of the American Industrial

Hygiene Association publication “The OccupationalEnvironment – Its Evaluation and Control.”

It suggests that:

• If the chemical’s boiling point is > 70° C and the concentration is less than 200 ppm you canexpect a service life of 8 hours at a normal workrate.

• Service life is inversely proportional to work rate.

• Reducing concentration by a factor of 10 will increase service life by a factor of 5.

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• Humidity above 85% will reduce service life by50%.

These generalizations can be used in concert withother methods of predicting service life for specificcontaminants.

Whenever a cartridge has become saturated or acontaminant has broken through the cartridge, the respirator must be taken out of service so that the cartridge can be replaced.

In general, The MultiVapor model (Attachment 5)and The Rule of Thumb can be used to calculate theservice life of a respirator cartridge or canister, whenthe calculations are made using information about thecanisters or cartridges themselves in combination withadditional information about the workplace conditions.The information about the canisters or cartridges maybe obtained from the respirator manufacturers. Calcula-tions for either the MultiVapor model or the Rule ofThumb require information about the workplace, aswell. The Rule of Thumb provides a rough estimate of the service life. Attachment 5 is a NIOSH table of cartridges and canisters by APFs that may provide assistance as well.

(d)(3)(iv) Respiratory protection for particulates

What are my options for protection against particulates?

You have three options:

• Atmosphere-supplying respirators.

• Air-purifying respirators (including filtering face-pieces)

- with filters certified by NIOSH under 30 CFR part 11

as high efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA), or

- filters certified by NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84.

• Air-purifying respirators with any filter certified forparticulates by NIOSH for protection against contaminants consisting primarily of particles withmass median aerodynamic diameters (MMAD) of atleast two micrometers (µm).

Local OSHA offices can help to determine whetheror not contaminants in your workplace consist primarilyof particles of two micrometers or more.

What types of particulate filters are available for air-purifying respirators (APRs)?

Particulate-removing filters are used to protect employ-ees from toxic dusts and fibers, such as lead and asbestos, fumes, mists, and radioactive and biologicalmaterials (such as grain dusts, bacteria, and viruses).Powered and non-powered APRs require different particulate filters. Appropriate protection against partic-ulates for powered APRs is provided by HEPA filters.

There are nine filter types for use with non-poweredAPRs approved by NIOSH, and they are based on threelevels of filter efficiency and three levels of resistance todegradation by oil. The three levels of filter efficiencyare 95, 99, and 99.97 percent and are referred to as 95,99 and 100 filters, respectively. The efficiency of a filteris based upon the percent of the most penetrating sizeparticle (0.3 micrometers in diameter) that it can exclude (e.g., a 95 filter can exclude 95% of particles ofthis size).

The three levels of oil resistance are N (not oil resistant), R (oil resistant) and P (oilproof). The mostcommon commercially available cartridges are the“N95” (not oil resistant and 95 percent efficient) and“P100” (oilproof and 99.97 percent efficient). N-series

Particulate Percentage (%) of Not resistant Somewhat StronglyRespirator 0.3 µm airborne to oil resistant to oil resistant to oilFilter Type particles filtered out (oilproof)

N95 95 X

N99 99 X

N100 99.97 X

R95 95 X

R99 99 X

R100 99.97 X

P95 95 X

P99 99 X

P100 99.97 X

The P100 is comparable to the HEPA filter that is used with PAPRs.


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filters are not required to demonstrate resistance to thepotentially “degrading” effects of oils and are, there-fore, not intended for use in workplace atmospheresthat contain oily aerosols. In this context, “degrading”means that exposure to an agent may cause an in-crease in filter penetration measured under laboratorytest conditions. R and P series filters must demonstrateoil resistance when tested with dioctyl phthalate (DOP),which is described as a “highly degrading” oil aerosol.As a result, both R and P filters can be used in work-place atmospheres that contain oily aerosols, as well asthose that do not.

The nine different types of particulate respirator filter types are listed in the table on page 22.

Do I need to use particulate filters with ESLI?

There are no ESLI for particulate-removing filters. Work-ers should be trained to change the filters when theyexperience difficulty breathing through the filter. This isusually an indication that the filter has become loadedwith particulate.

Where can I go for help?Sources of help include:

• NIOSH Respirator Selection Logic. U.S. Departmentof Health and Human Services, Public Health Serv-ice, Centers for Disease Control, National Institutefor Occupational Safety and Health. Request DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-100. NIOSH also hasa help line. The telephone number is 1-800-35NIOSH or http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2005-100/default.html

• American National Standard for Respiratory Protection (ANSI Z88.2). American National Standards Institute, 11 West 42nd Street, New York,New York, 10036. See: global.ihs.ANSI Z88.2

• Respirator manufacturers provide advice throughproduct literature, sales staff, and telephone helplines. The Industrial Safety Equipment Association(ISEA) has contact information. ISEA can bereached at: 1901 N. Moore Street, Suite 808, Arlington, Virginia, 22209, or (703) 525-1695.

• Chemical manufacturers may provide informationon the nature and properties of substances towhich your employees may be exposed. Youshould be able to obtain information from the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) provided bythe supplier of the substance.

• You can contact the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), 6500Glenway Ave., Bldg. D-7, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45211-4438, for advice and information on exposuremeasurement and estimation and other related industrial hygiene subjects. ACGIH has publishedthe ACGIH Ventilation Manual, which contains calculations applied to certain situations to estimateemployee exposures.

CHECKLIST FOR RESPIRATOR SELECTION√ Check that the following has been done at your facility:

q Respiratory hazards in your workplace have been identified and evaluated.

q Employee exposures that have not been, or cannot be, evaluated must be considered IDLH.

q Respirators are NIOSH-certified, and used under the conditions of certification.

q Respirators are selected based on the workplace hazards evaluated and workplace and user factors affecting respirator performance and reliability.

q Respirators are selected based on the APFs and calculated MUCs.

q A sufficient number of respirator sizes and modelsare provided for selection purposes.

For IDLH atmospheres:

q Full facepiece pressure demand SARs with auxiliary SCBA unit or full facepiece pressure demand SCBAs, with a minimum service life of 30 minutes, are provided.

q Respirators used for escape only are NIOSH-certified for the atmosphere in which they will be used.

q Oxygen deficient atmospheres must be considered IDLH (d)(2)(B)(iii).

For Non-IDLH atmospheres:

q Respirators selected are appropriate for the APFs and MUCs.

q Respirators selected are appropriate for the chemical nature and physical form of the contaminant.

q Air-purifying respirators used for protection against gases and vapors are equipped with ESLIs or a change schedule has been implemented.

q Air-purifying respirators used for protection against particulates are equipped with NIOSH-certified HEPA filters or other filters certified by NIOSH for particulates under 42 CFR part 84.

• You can also contact the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), 2700 Prosperity Ave.,Suite 250, Fairfax, Virginia, 22031, for advice and information on exposure measurement and estima-tion. Members of AIHA’s Exposure AssessmentStrategies Committee are knowledgeable in worker exposure measurement and estimation.(See: http://www.aiha.org/Content.)

• The National Library of Medicine provides free online help about chemical hazards. ThroughTOXNET, located at: http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov, youcan search a number of databases on toxicology,hazardous chemicals, hazardous biological atmos-pheres, and other related subjects for informationon respiratory hazards.

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Table I: Assigned Protection Factors 5

Type of Respirator 1, 2 Quarter Mask Half Mask Full Facepiece Helmet/Hood Loose-Fitting Facepiece

1. Air-Purifying Respirator 5 103 50 — —

2. Powered Air-Purifying — 50 1,000 25/1,000 4 25Respirator (PAPR)

3. Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR) or Airline Respirator

• Demand mode — 10 50 — —

• Continuous flow mode — 50 1,000 25/1,000 4 25

• Pressure-demand or — 50 1,000 — —other positive pressure mode

4. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

• Demand mode — 10 50 50 —

• Pressure-demand or — — 10,000 10,000 —other positive pressure mode (e.g., open/closed circuit)

Notes:1 Employers may select respirators assigned for use in higher workplace concentrations of a hazardous substance for

use at lower concentrations of that substance, or when required respirator use is independent of concentration.2 The assigned protection factors in Table I are only effective when the employer implements a continuing, effective

respirator program as required by this section (29 CFR 1910.134), including training, fit testing, maintenance, and userequirements.

3 This APF category includes filtering facepieces, and half masks with elastomeric facepieces.4 The employer must have evidence provided by the respirator manufacturer that testing of these respirators demon-

strates performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater to receive an APF of 1,000. This level of performance canbest be demonstrated by performing a WPF or SWPF study or equivalent testing. Absent such testing, all other PAPRsand SARs with helmets/hoods are to be treated as loose-fitting facepiece respirators, and receive an APF of 25.

5 These APFs do not apply to respirators used solely for escape. For escape respirators used in association with specificsubstances covered by 29 CFR 1910 subpart Z, employers must refer to the appropriate substance-specific standards inthat subpart. Escape respirators for other IDLH atmospheres are specified by 29 CFR 1910.134(d)(2)(ii).


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Air-purifying respiratorsAir-purifying respirators, which remove contaminants from the air.

Full Facepiece Elastomeric RespiratorAPF=50 Needs to be fit tested

Half mask Filtering FacepieceDust maskAPF=10 Needs to be fit tested

Half mask Elastomeric RespiratorAPF=10 Needs to be fit tested

Tight-Fitting Full FacepiecePowered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF=1,000Needs to be fit tested

Tight-Fitting Half FacepiecePowered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF=50Needs to be fit tested

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Examples of Air-purifying respirators that can not be fit tested because they are loose-fitting

Loose-Fitting Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF=25

Hooded Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) APF=25 (1,000)*

Atmosphere-supplying respiratorsAtmosphere-supplying respirators, which provide clean air from an uncontaminated source

Tight-fitting Atmosphere-Supplying Respirator with an auxiliary escape bottleAPF=10,000 in escape mode only;otherwise APF=1,000Full facepiece Needs to be fit tested

Tight-fitting Self-ContainedBreathing Apparatus (SCBA) pressure-demand modeAPF=10,000Demand modeAPF=50 Needs to be fit tested

Tight-fitting Abrasive Blasting Respirator Continuous flowAPF=25/1,000*SAR Full FacepieceNeeds to be fit tested**

* APF=25/1,000; Footnote 4 in the APF Table.** One type of SAR Hood (not depicted) is a SAR with a loose hood; a loose-fitting SAR Hood looks much like this example, but without the tight-fitting facepiece, and does not need to be fit tested. For a loose-fitting facepiece SAR Hood the APF=25 unless therespirator qualifies for a higher APF under Footnote 4.


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Table II: Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres

Altitude (ft) Oxygen deficient atmospheres (% O2) for which the employer may rely on any atmosphere-supplying respirator

Less than 3001 16.0-19.5

3001-4000 16.4-19.5

4001-5000 17.1-19.5

5001-6000 17.8-19.5

6001-7000 18.5-19.5

7001-80001 19.3-19.5

1Above 8,000 feet the exception does not apply. Oxygen-enrichedbreathing air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.

Section (e): Medical evaluationThis section of the Respiratory Protection standard requires employers to implement medical evaluationsto determine an employee’s ability to use a respirator.This requirement is necessary because using a respirator may place a burden on an employee’s health.This burden varies according to a number of factors,such as the weight and breathing resistance of the respirator and the workplace conditions under whichthe respirator is worn.

Examples of some medical conditions that may be associated with sudden incapacitation, or may interferewith safe use of a respirator or specific type of respirator, include:

• Cardiovascular and respiratory disease, such as highblood pressure, angina, asthma, chronic bronchitis,or emphysema.

• Cardiovascular damage caused by heart attack orstroke.

• Reduced lung function caused by factors such assmoking or prior exposure to respiratory hazards.

• Neurological disorders, such as epilepsy.

• Musculoskeletal disorders, such as lower back pain.

• Psychological conditions, such as claustrophobiaand severe anxiety.

This list provides examples of only some medicalconditions that may interfere with safe use of a respira-tor, or specific type of respirator. In addition, certainmedications may interfere with safe use of a respirator.

(e)(1) Employer provided medical evaluations

The employer must provide an employee with a medical evaluation to determine his or her ability to usea respirator. If an employee refuses to be medically

evaluated for the use of a respirator, he or she cannotbe assigned to a job that requires a respirator.

When do I need to provide an employee with a medicalevaluation?

The medical evaluation must be provided before theemployee is fit tested and uses the respirator in yourworkplace for the first time.

Are medical evaluations required for all types of respirators?

Medical evaluations are required for both positive pressure and negative pressure respirators. When elastomeric or supplied-air respirators are worn voluntarily by employees (not required by you orOSHA), you must ensure that the employees are medically able to wear the respirators and that they areprovided with the necessary information as required inthe standard. (See Attachment 2 at page 61.) The procedures for making this medical determination mustbe part of your written respiratory protection program.When your employees voluntarily wear dust masks (filtering facepiece respirators), no medical examinationis required.

Do I need to provide medical evaluations for seasonaland temporary employees?

If seasonal or temporary employees are required towear a respirator, you must provide them with medicalevaluations. The frequency or length of an employee’sterm of employment does not affect the requirementfor medical evaluations.

(e)(2) Medical evaluation procedures

This portion of the standard specifies that the medicalevaluation can be performed by using the mandatoryportions of the medical questionnaire found in Appendix C of the Respiratory Protection standard. The mandatory portions of this Appendix in the finalstandard are under:

Appendix C to § 1910.134: OSHA Respirator MedicalEvaluation Questionnaire (Mandatory)

Appendix C - Part A. Section 1. (Mandatory) - every employee who has been selected to use any type ofrespirator must answer all 12 questions.

Appendix C - Part A. Section 2. (Mandatory) - Questions1 through 9 must be answered by every employee who has been selected to use any type of respirator.Questions 10 to 15 must also be answered by every employee who has been selected to use either a full-facepiece respirator or a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). For employees who have been selected to use other types of respirators, answeringquestions 10 - 15 is optional.

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All medical evaluations can be performed using themedical questionnaire of the standard, in Appendix C,or by a medical examination that obtains the same information as the medical questionnaire.

Question number 1 in Part A. Section 1, and questionnumber 9 in Part A. Section 2 collect personal historicdata.

If an employee gives a positive answer to questionnumber 9 in Part A. Section 2, the employer must allowthe employee to contact the physician or other licensedhealthcare professional (PLHCP).

There is a non-mandatory section of the medical questionnaire, Part B of Appendix C of the standard.

Identification of a Medical Professional

Employers must identify a physician or another licensed health care professional (PLHCP) to performthe medical evaluations.

Who can perform a medical evaluation?

Physicians are not the only health care professionals allowed to perform medical evaluations for respiratoruse. The Respiratory Protection standard allows anyPLHCP to administer the medical questionnaire (described below) or to conduct the medical examina-tion if doing so is within the scope of the PLHCP’s license. You must check with PLHCPs in your local areato see if performing the medical evaluation is within thescope of their professional license. Or you may checkwith your state licensing board.

Can a nurse perform a medical evaluation?

Any health care professional, including a nurse, whoqualifies as a PLHCP can perform a medical evaluation.If a nurse does not qualify as a PLHCP, he or she maystill be able to perform a medical evaluation if he or she is doing so under the supervision of a physician,and the physician performs the final review of the assessment.

Can an employee request to see his or her own physician for a medical evaluation?

Yes, however, you are not required by the standard tocomply with this request. If employees select their ownphysicians, you will need to maintain contact with eachphysician, and you will need to send each physician thesupplemental information described in paragraph (e)(5)of the standard. You must allow the employee to beevaluated during the employee’s normal working hoursor at a time that is convenient to the employee, and youalso are responsible for paying for this service (even ifthe employee has coverage under an insurance plan).

The Medical Questionnaire: The medical question-naire is designed to identify general medical conditionsthat could place employees who use respirators at riskof serious medical consequences. If you choose to usethe medical questionnaire to conduct the medical evaluation, you must use the questionnaire containedin Appendix C to § 1910.134: OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire (Mandatory) of the Respiratory Protection standard. A copy of the standard is in Attachment 3 of this guide.

You may choose to use medical examinations inplace of the questionnaire, but you are not required todo so. Although the questionnaire does not have to beadministered during the medical examination, thePLHCP must obtain the same information from the employee that is contained in the questionnaire.

(e)(3) Follow-up medical examinations

Employers must provide follow-up examinations foremployees who give positive answers to any of thequestions numbered 1 through 8 in Part A. Section 2,Appendix C to § 1910.134. Employees who will be using SCBAs or full-face respirators will be asked questions 10 through 15 in this same section. Also, employers must provide a follow-up examination if themedical examination indicates that one is necessary forany other reason specified by the examining PLHCP.

As part of any medical examination, the PLHCP may include any tests, consultations, or diagnostic procedures that, in the opinion of the examining PLHCP,are necessary to make a final determination about anemployee’s ability to use a respirator. In some cases, allthat might be needed is a phone call to the employeefrom the PLHCP to clarify an issue from the questionnaire.

If the PLHCP is not a physician, some medical issuesmay arise during follow-up examinations that may beoutside the scope of the PLHCP’s license. In such cases,a qualified physician or other licensed healthcareprovider with appropriate licensure must be involved.

(e)(4) Administration of questionnaires and examinations

What procedures exist for administering the medicalevaluation?

When you provide a medical evaluation program:

• You must protect the confidentiality of the employeewho is being evaluated.

• The medical evaluation must be given during anemployee’s normal work hours or at a time andplace convenient to the employee.

• The employee must understand the questions onthe medical questionnaire.


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Who pays for the medical evaluation?

You must pay for the medical evaluation and any related expenses, including travel costs, incurred byyour employee during the evaluation.

How can I ensure that a employee’s medical evaluation remains confidential?

You must provide your employees with instructions onhow to deliver or send the completed questionnaire tothe PLHCP who will review it. This can be done, for example, by supplying them with stamped, pre-addressed envelopes for mailing their completed questionnaires to the PLHCP.

If an employee does not speak English or cannot read,how can I make sure that he or she understands thequestions on the medical questionnaire?

You can send the employee directly to a PLHCP who is able to help the employee fill out the questionnaire.For non-English speakers, you may want to consider supplying an interpreter to help the PLHCP interpret thequestionnaire for your employee. The standard doesnot require you to hire a professional interpreter; instead, you may use an English-speaking family member or friend of the employee, or another employee who speaks both English and the employee’slanguage, who can help the employee fill out the questionnaire.

Employee’s Right to Contact the PLHCP

The standard requires you to inform employees that aPLHCP is available to discuss the medical questionnairewith them, and to allow employees to discuss the results of their questionnaire with the PLHCP. This discussion will enable employees and PLHCPs to clarifyquestions that were asked on the questionnaire, and foremployees to explain answers that they provided.

How can I notify employees about how to contact thePLHCP?

You could post the PLHCP’s name and telephone number in a location that is easily accessible to all employees (such as a lunchroom or break area). Youcould also include the information in a separate sheetwith the medical questionnaire.

(e)(5) Supplemental information for the PLHCP

This portion of the Respiratory Protection standard requires you to provide the PLHCP with specific information to be used to make the determinationabout an employee’s ability to use a respirator.

This information includes:

• The type and weight of the respirator to be worn bythe worker.

• The duration and frequency of respirator use (in-cluding use for rescue and escape).

• The level of physical effort that the employee wouldbe expending while wearing a respirator.

• Additional personal protective clothing and equip-ment that the employee would wear.

• The temperature and humidity extremes that maybe encountered in the work environment where respirator use is required.

• In addition, you must provide the PLHCP with thefollowing:

- A copy of your written respiratory protection program.

- A copy of the Respiratory Protection standard.

Why do I need to provide the PLHCP with a copy of the written respiratory protection program and the Respiratory Protection standard?

This requirement helps ensure that PLHCPs have a thorough understanding of their duties and responsibil-ities in the medical evaluation process. Your written respiratory protection program will provide the PLHCPwith critical information about the working conditionsthat could increase the burden placed on the employee’s health during respirator use.

Does the PLHCP need to visit the worksite to perform amedical evaluation?

No, the supplemental information required in this portion of the standard should be sufficient for thePLHCP to make a valid recommendation on the employee’s ability to wear a respirator. OSHA, however,encourages PLHCPs to visit the worksite if they believethe information obtained there would be useful to them.

If I select a new PLHCP, do I need to have my employeesreevaluated?

No, but you must make sure that the new PLHCP hasthe information required in this section. You must eitherprovide the information directly to the new PLHCP, oryou must make sure that the information is transferredfrom the former PLHCP to the new PLHCP.

How often do I need to provide the PLHCP with supplemental information?

You need to supply the information to the PLHCP onlywhen the conditions of respirator use change.

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(e)(6) Medical determination

This portion of the standard requires you to obtain arecommendation from the PLHCP about the employee’sability to use a respirator. The PLHCP’s recommenda-tion must be in writing, and it must provide only the following information:

• A determination of whether or not the employee ismedically able to use a respirator.

• Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical condition of the employee or to the work-place conditions in which the respirator will be used.

• The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations.

• A statement that the PLHCP has provided the employee with a copy of the PLHCP’s written recommendation.

Note that you are required to have the PLHCP provide acopy of the written recommendation to each employee.

Who is responsible for making the final decision aboutan employee’s ability to wear a respirator?

You are responsible for making the final determination.The PLHCP’s opinion is an important factor that youmust consider in making this determination.

Is the information from the medical evaluation confidential, or can the PLHCP share this informationwith me?

The PLHCP must keep strictly confidential any informa-tion revealed during the medical evaluation; your access is limited to the information contained in thePLHCP’s written recommendation.

Can I receive a copy of the employee’s completed medical questionnaire?

No, the completed questionnaire is a medical recordand must be kept confidential.

Negative Pressure Respirators and Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPR): If the PLHCP determinesthat an employee is unable to wear a negative pressure respirator, perhaps because of a breathing problemsuch as asthma or bronchitis, but would be able to weara powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR), you mustprovide the employee with a PAPR. If, however, thePLHCP determines in a subsequent medical evaluationthat the employee can wear a negative pressure respirator, you no longer need to provide the employeewith a PAPR. (See 29 CFR 1910.1034(e)(6)(ii).)

(e)(7) Additional medical evaluations

This portion of the standard requires you to provide an employee with additional medical evaluations whenever the following events occur:

• The employee reports symptoms related to his orher ability to use a respirator.

• The PLHCP, respiratory protection program administrator, or supervisor, determines that a medical reevaluation is necessary.

• Information from the respiratory protection programsuggests a need for reevaluation.

• Workplace conditions (such as protective clothing,temperature, or level of work effort) have changedso that an increased physiological burden is placedon the employee.

• The results of the medical examination reveal thatadditional medical evaluations are necessary.

The results of the medical examination reveal that additional medical evaluations are necessary. Do I needto provide my employees with a medical reevaluationannually or according to some other fixed schedule?

No, however, you must provide medical reevaluationsin accordance with the PLHCP’s recommendation.

Do I need to provide an employee who is unable to usea respirator with an alternative job at no loss of payand other benefits?

The Respiratory Protection standard does not requirethat workers receive such benefits; however, otherOSHA substance-specific standards may contain such a requirement.


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Section (f): Fit testingThis section of the Respiratory Protection standard requires you to conduct fit testing on all employeeswho are required to wear a respirator that includes atight-fitting facepiece. Fit testing is a procedure used todetermine how well a respirator “fits”—that is, whetherthe respirator forms a seal on the user’s face. If a goodfacepiece-to-face seal is not achieved, the respirator willprovide a lower level of protection than it was designedto provide. For example, without a good seal, the respirator can allow contaminants to leak into the user’sbreathing air. The APFs for the specific classes of respirators in the final Respiratory Protection standard(Table I: Assigned Protection Factors) only apply if therespirators are properly selected and used in compli-ance with the full respirator program, including initial fittesting when necessary. Fit testing must be performedbefore initial use and at least annually thereafter.

This section also describes:

• What types of respirators must be fit tested.

• How often fit testing must be conducted.

• What procedures must be used.

• How the results of fit testing should be used toguide respirator selection.

Examples of respirators that need to be fit tested(tight-fitting facepieces)

Air-purifying respirators remove contaminants from the air

CHECKLIST FOR MEDICAL EVALUATION

√ Check that the following has been done at your facility:q All employees have been evaluated to determine

their ability to wear a respirator prior to being fit tested for or wearing a respirator for the first time in your workplace.

q A physician or other licensed healthcare profes-sional (PLHCP) has been identified to perform the medical evaluations.

q The medical evaluations obtain the information requested in Sections 1 and 2, Part A of Appendix C of the standard, 29 CFR 1910.134. (See Attachment 3 at page 67)

q Employees are provided follow-up medical exams if they answer positively to any of questions 1 through 8 in Section 2, Part A of Appendix C of thestandard, or if their medical examination reveals that a follow-up exam is needed.

q Medical evaluations are administered confiden-tially during normal work hours, and in a manner that is understandable to employees.

q Employees are provided the opportunity to discuss the medical evaluation results with the PLHCP.

q The following supplemental information is provided to the PLHCP before he or she makes a decision about respirator use:• Type and weight of the respirator.• Duration and frequency of respirator use.• Expected physical work effort.• Additional protective clothing to be worn.• Potential temperature and humidity extremes.• Written copies of the respiratory protection

program and the Respiratory Protection standard are provided to the PLHCP.

q Written recommendations are obtained from the PLHCP regarding each employee’s ability to wear a respirator, and that the PLHCP has given the worker a copy of these recommendations.

q Employees who are medically unable to wear a negative pressure respirator are provided with a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) if they are found by the PLHCP to be medically able to use a PAPR. (29 CFR 1910.1034(e)(6)(ii).)

Employees are given additional medical evaluationswhen:q The employee reports symptoms related to his or

her ability to use a respirator.q The PLHCP, respiratory protection program

administrator, or supervisor determines that a medical reevaluation is necessary.

q Information from the respiratory protection program suggests a need for reevaluation.

q Workplace conditions have changed in a way that could potentially place an increased physiological burden on the employee.



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Examples of respirators that need to be fit tested(tight-fitting facepieces) (continued)

Examples of air-purifying respirators that can not be fit tested because they are loose-fitting


Tight-Fitting Full FacepiecePowered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF=1,000Needs to be fit tested

Tight-Fitting Half FacepiecePowered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF=50Needs to be fit tested

Atmosphere-supplied respira-tor Full Facepiece Elastomericwith an auxiliary escape bottleAPF=10,000 in escape mode only; otherwise APF=1,000Needs to be fit tested

Abrasive Blasting Respirator;Atmosphere-supplying respirator Full Facepiece ElastomericAPF=25/1,000*Needs to be fit tested;Continuous flow


Hooded Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) APF=25 1,000*

* Footnote 4 of the APF Table

* Footnote 4 of the APF Table

What is a tight-fitting facepiece?

A tight-fitting facepiece is intended to form a completeseal with the respirator wearer’s face. This seal must besufficiently tight to prevent any contaminants in thework environment from leaking around the edges of thefacepiece into the user’s breathing air.

In contrast, a loose-fitting facepiece is specifically designed to form a partial seal with the user’s face.Such a facepiece typically covers at least the head andincludes a system through which clean air is distributedinto the breathing zone. For example, hoods and helmets are loose-fitting facepieces. Such equipmentdoes not rely on a tight facepiece-to-face seal to protectthe employee, and is useful for employees with facialhair or other physical characteristics that make it difficult to wear a tight-fitting facepiece.


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Examples of tight-fitting facepieces

What are positive pressure and negative pressure respirators?

Positive pressure respirators maintain positive air pressure inside the facepiece throughout the user’sbreathing cycle. That is, the air pressure inside the facepiece remains greater than the air pressure outsidethe facepiece. Thus, any leakage around the facepieceseal should result in air escaping from inside the facepiece to the outside environment rather than worksite contaminants leaking into the facepiece andbreathing air.

In contrast, a negative pressure respirator will havea lower air pressure inside the facepiece than outsideduring inhalation. If the facepiece-to-face seal leaks onthese types of respirators, air contaminants will bedrawn into the breathing air.

Examples of the two major types of respirators that require fit testing, negative pressure (air-purifying) andpositive pressure (atmosphere-supplying)

What is quantitative fit testing (QNFT)?

Quantitative fit testing is a method of measuring theamount of leakage into a respirator. It is a numeric assessment of how well a respirator fits a particular individual. To quantitatively fit test a respirator, sampling probes or other measuring devices must beplaced to measure aerosol concentrations both outsideand on the inside of the respirator facepiece.

The respirator wearer then performs the user sealchecks followed by the selected QNFT. Basically, a userseal check is a quick and easy way for employees toverify that they have put on their respirators correctlyand that the respirators are working properly. More detailed information on the user seal check is providedin Section (g): Use of Respirators, at page 41.

• For the generated aerosol QNFT, the respiratorwearer stands inside a “test chamber” (booth orhood), where a nontoxic aerosol is introduced intothe air. Measurements are then taken of the aerosolconcentration both inside the test chamber and inside the respirator. An assessment of the quantitative fit is made based on the ratio of theaerosol concentration inside the test chamber to theconcentration inside the facepiece.

Half mask Filtering FacepieceDust maskAPF=10

Half mask Elastomeric RespiratorAPF=10

Full Facepiece Elastomeric RespiratorAPF=50

Air-purifying respirator, which removes contaminants from the air Half mask Filtering Facepiece;Dust maskNeeds to be fit testedAPF=10

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Atmosphere-supplying, orSupplied-air respirator (SAR), which provides clean air froman uncontaminated sourceNeeds to be fit testedAPF=10,000

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• For the condensation nuclei counter QNFT, ambientair particles are used as the test aerosol with meas-urements made of their concentration outside andinside the facepiece, and an assessment is made ofthe quantitative fit of the facepiece.

• The controlled negative pressure QNFT methoduses an instrument to exhaust air from inside therespirator facepiece to maintain a constant negativepressure. The measurement of the exhaust streamrequired to maintain a constant negative pressureyields a measure of leakage into the facepiece.

• Detailed protocols for quantitative fit testing are provided under Appendix A of the standard. (See Attachment 3 at page 67.)

What is qualitative fit testing (QLFT)?

Qualitative fit testing is a non-numeric pass/fail test that relies on the respirator wearer’s response to a substance (“test agent”) used in the test to determinerespirator fit.

In qualitative fit testing, after performing user sealchecks, the respirator wearer stands in an enclosureand a test agent is introduced. Such test agents are:

• Banana oil (Isoamyl acetate)

• Saccharin

• Bitrex

• Irritant smoke (no enclosure)

In qualitative fit testing, using irritant smoke as thetest agent, there is no enclosure.

If the individual can detect the test agent, this indi-cates that the agent leaked into the facepiece and that therespirator has failed the test because a good facepiece-to-face seal has not been achieved. If the employee cannot successfully complete the qualitative test with aparticular respirator, the employee must then be testedwith another make, size, or model of respirator.

Detailed protocols for qualitative fit testing are inAppendix A of the standard. (See Attachment 3 at page67.)

What is the fit factor?

The fit factor is a quantitative measure of how well aparticular respirator fits (or provides protection to) anindividual. It is the ratio of the concentration of a contaminant in the environment to the concentrationinside the mask.

Fit factors are obtained from quantitative fit testing.For example, if an employee was in a test chamber thatcontained 300 ppm of aerosol and 3 ppm of the testagent was found inside the mask, the fit factor would beequal to 100.

Qualitative Fit Testing and User Seal Checking

Qualitative Fit Test

User seal check (paragraph (g))

A user seal check is not a fit test. The user sealcheck is one step an employee must take before any fit testing is performed and before the employee usesthe respirator in the workplace.


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(f)(1) Respirators that require fit testing

You must ensure that quantitative or qualitative fit testing is conducted for all employees required to weareither positive or negative pressure tight-fitting face-piece respirators. This includes both air-purifying andatmosphere-supplying respirators operating in either apositive or negative pressure mode, but does not include any loose-fitting facepieces.

Must I perform fit testing for workers who voluntarilywear tight-fitting facepiece respirators?

No. If an employee chooses to wear a tight-fitting facepiece respirator (including a negative pressure air-purifying respirator or a filtering facepiece (dust mask))in a worksite environment where such equipment is notrequired, you are not required to conduct fit testing.

(f)(2) When fit testing must be conducted: generalrequirements

You must ensure that fit testing is conducted for all employees required to wear tight-fitting facepiece respirators as follows:

• Prior to initial use.

• Whenever an employee switches to a different tight-fitting facepiece respirator (for example, a differentsize, make or model).

• At least annually.

(f)(3) When fit testing must be conducted: changesin the respirator wearer’s physical condition

You must ensure that an additional fit test is conductedif an employee experiences a change in physical condition that could affect the seal on a tight-fittingfacepiece respirator. This requirement is triggered by aphysical change:

• Reported by the respirator user.

• Observed by you, a physician or other licensedhealthcare professional, the supervisor, or the program administrator.

Physical changes in the employee that might affectthe facepiece-to-face seal could include, for example, an obvious change in body weight, facial scarring, extensive dental work, or cosmetic surgery.

(f)(4) When fit testing must be conducted: unacceptable fit as determined by an employee after fit testing

If, after fit testing, an employee reports that his or herrespirator does not fit properly, you must allow the employee a reasonable opportunity to select a differenttight-fitting facepiece respirator.

After another respirator is selected, you must conduct a new fit test on the employee’s replacementequipment.

An employee might determine that the facepiecedoes not establish an effective facepiece-to-face seal,for example, upon detecting a worksite contaminantwhile wearing the respirator with new cartridges, or anemployee might hear or feel air leaking around thefacepiece-to-face seal. The employee’s determinationalso can be based on factors unrelated to the particularworksite. For example, the employee might find that heor she can not wear the respirator for extended periodswithout experiencing irritation or pain.

(f)(5) Fit testing procedures: general fit testing procedures

You must ensure that all fit testing conducted for employees required to wear tight-fitting facepiece respirators follows the OSHA-approved protocols.

Detailed protocols for qualitative and quantitative fittesting are provided as part of the standard at AppendixA. Attachment 3 provides a copy of the standard. Theseprotocols specify that you must have on hand during fit testing all types and sizes of respirators that areavailable for use at the worksite. This allows you to ensure that each employee is tested with the same typeof respirator (make, model, style, and size) that he orshe will wear at the worksite.

(f)(6) Limitation on use of qualitative fit testing

The table at the end of this chapter summarizes accept-able means of fit testing (QLFT and QNFT) for differenttypes of respirators. For more information, consultOSHA’s website at http://www.osha.gov.

Qualitative fit tests (QLFT) are those using Bitrex,Saccharin, Irritant smoke, or Isoamyl acetate as challenge agents.

QLFT may be used to fit test all positive pressure respirators (air-supplying and PAPRs). Your use of qualitative fit testing on negative pressure air-purifyingrespirators is limited to those that must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less. Dividing the fit factor of 100 by astandard safety factor of 10 indicates that the negativepressure air-purifying respirators that have successfullycompleted a qualitative fit test can be relied on to reducean employee’s exposure by a protection factor of 10. Thesafety factor of 10 is used because protection factors thatemployees achieve at work sites tend to be much lowerthan the fit factors achieved during fit testing.

In practice, this means that any negative pressureair-purifying respirator (APR) may be qualitatively fittested if the APR is to be used in workplace atmos-pheres where the level of the hazardous contaminant is

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10 times or less than the permissible exposure limit(PEL) and lower than the level that is immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH). For example, if thePEL for a specific workplace contaminant is 5 ppm, youcould use a qualitative fit test to fit test a negative pressure APR to be used in the workplace at exposurelevels up to 50 ppm (ten times the PEL or less). Bothhalf facepiece APRs and full facepiece APRs may bequalitatively fit tested if they are to be worn in workareas where the concentration of contaminant is nomore than ten times the PEL. If a full facepiece APR is tobe used in atmospheres with levels of contaminationgreater than ten (10) times the PEL, a quantitative fit testmust be used. (See section (f)(7).)

The quantitative fit tests are:

• The Portacount

• CNP

• CNP REDON

(f)(7) Use of quantitative fit testing

If quantitative testing is used to fit test a tight-fittingfacepiece respirator, respirator fit is not acceptable unless:

• For a half or quarter facepiece: The fit factorachieved in the test is greater than or equal to 100.

• For a full facepiece: The fit factor achieved in the testis greater than or equal to 500.

The following quantitative fit testing procedures(QNFT) have been demonstrated to be acceptable: Por-tacount, Controlled Negative Pressure (CNP), and Con-trolled Negative Pressure REDON (CNP REDON).

When using a QNFT, a non-hazardous test aerosol isgenerated and appropriate instrumentation measuresthe respirator fit.

(f)(8) Fit testing for atmosphere-supplying and powered air-purifying respirators

You must ensure that all fit testing conducted for employees issued tight-fitting atmosphere-supplyingrespirators and powered air-purifying respirators is conducted in the negative pressure mode, even if therespirator will be used with positive pressure. This isbecause it is difficult outside of a laboratory test situation to accurately perform fit testing on positivepressure respirators.

In what circumstances might an atmosphere-supplyingor powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) perform like anegative pressure respirator?

If the blower component of a PAPR loses power because it is turned off or the batteries run out, the

respirator will become a negative pressure respirator.

Also, powered air-purifying respirators and self-contained breathing apparatus units can perform likenegative pressure respirators when the user increaseshis or her inhalation rate during heavy work. The increased inhalation rate can result in negative pressurespikes inside the facepiece that are greater than thepositive pressure of the air being supplied. This is called“overbreathing the respirator.” Therefore, positive airflow alone cannot be counted on to prevent the leakagethat can occur with a poorly fitting facepiece.

You can conduct qualitative or quantitative fit testingof tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respirators andpowered air-purifying respirators according to the following requirements.

Qualitative fit testing. To conduct qualitative fit test-ing on an atmosphere-supplying respirator, you mustdo one of the following:

• Temporarily convert the user’s actual facepiece into a negative pressure respirator by installing the appropriate filters. If you are not sure how to do this, check with the respirator manufacturer or your supplier;

• Use an identical negative pressure facepiece (size,make, model); or

• You can conduct qualitative fit testing on a poweredair-purifying respirator by simply turning off theblower.

Quantitative fit testing. To conduct quantitative fittesting on an atmosphere-supplying respirator, youmust temporarily or permanently install a samplingprobe or adaptor inside the facepiece.

In preparation for testing, you should contact therespirator manufacturer or supplier for information on


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whether a sampling adapter can be temporarily installed in the facepiece.

Any modifications made to a respirator for testingpurposes must be removed before use.

If temporary modifications cannot be made, you willneed to permanently convert the facepiece to allow fortesting. If you permanently convert the facepiece – forexample, by drilling a hole in the respirator facepiece toinsert the probe – you cannot repair the hole and putthe respirator back in service. Once a hole is drilled inthe facepiece, the respirator can only be used for fittesting purposes. It is no longer approved for workplaceuse.

What is the CNP REDON Fit Test?

The CNP REDON protocol requires the performance of three different test exercises followed by two redonnings of the respirator, while the CNP protocol approved previously by OSHA specifies eight test exercises, including one redonning of the respirator. Inaddition to amending the standard to include the CNPREDON protocol, this rulemaking made several editorialand non-substantive technical revisions to the Standardassociated with the CNP REDON protocol and the previously approved CNP protocol.

This additional quantitative fit testing protocol, thecontrolled negative pressure (CNP) REDON fit testingprotocol, is now included in Appendix A of the finalRespiratory Protection standard. (See Attachment 3 atpage 67.) The protocol affects, in addition to general industry, OSHA respiratory protection standards forshipyard employment and construction.

Are any new fit test methods being developed?

Yes, OSHA approved a new fit test, see Attachment 3 atpage 67 of the guide.

The Respiratory Protection standard included a provision for the development of new, faster, less costlyfit tests. Part II of Appendix A of the Respiratory Protection standard, at Attachment 3 of this guide,specifies, in part, the procedure individuals must followto submit new fit testing protocols for the Agency’s consideration. The criteria OSHA uses for determiningwhether to propose adding a fit testing protocol to theRespiratory Protection standard include: (1) A test report prepared by an independent government research laboratory (e.g., Lawrence Livermore NationalLaboratory (LLNL), Los Alamos National Laboratory(LANL), the National Institute for Standards and Technology) stating that the laboratory tested the protocol and found it to be accurate and reliable; (2) anarticle published in a peer-reviewed industrial hygiene

journal describing the protocol, and explaining how testdata support the accuracy and reliability of the protocol.When a protocol meets one of these criteria, theAgency conducts a notice-and-comment rulemakingunder Section 6(b)(7) of the OSH Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C.655). The purpose of this provision was to allow for thedevelopment of new technology for fit tests, allowingfor faster and better fit test methods, as well as new fittest choices for employers. As OSHA noted in the proposal, the CNP REDON protocol met the second ofthese criteria (68 FR 33887; June 6, 2003).

Acceptable Fit Testing Methods

Respirator QNFT QLFT

Half Face, Negative Pressure, APR (<100 fit factor) Yes Yes

Full face, Negative Pressure, APR (<100 fit factor) used in atmospheres up to 10 times the PEL Yes Yes

Full face, Negative Pressure, APR (>100 fit factor) Yes No

PAPR Yes Yes

Supplied-Air Respirators (SAR), or SCBA used in Negative Pressure (Demand Mode) (>100 fit factor) Yes No

SCBA - Structural Fire Fighting, Positive Pressure Yes Yes

SCBA/SAR - IDLH, Positive Pressure Yes Yes

Mouthbit Respirators Fit Testing Not Required

Loose-fitting Respirators Fit Testing(e.g., hoods, helmets) Not Required

Examples of respirators that require fit testing (tight-fitting) are depicted on following pages. In casesin which elastomeric facepieces are used, rememberthat elastomeric facepieces are made from natural orsynthetic rubber or silicone; EPDM is an acronym for aspecific type of rubber, that is, Ethylene propylene dieneM-class rubber.

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Air-purifying respiratorsAir-purifying respirators, which remove contaminants from the air.





Hooded Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) APF=25 (1,000)*

* Footnote 4 of the APF Table.


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Tight-Fitting Full FacepiecePowered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF= 1,000Needs to be fit tested

Tight-Fitting Half FacepiecePowered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR)APF= 50Needs to be fit tested

Atmosphere-supplying respiratorsAtmosphere-supplying respirators, which provide clean air from an uncontaminated source.

Tight-fitting Atmosphere-Supplying Respirator with an auxiliary escape bottleAPF=10,000 in escape mode only;otherwise APF=1,000Full facepiece Needs to be fit tested

Tight-fitting Self-ContainedBreathing Apparatus (SCBA) pressure-demand modeAPF=10,000demand modeAPF=50 Needs to be fit tested

Tight-fitting Abrasive Blasting Respirator Continuous flowAPF=25/1,000*SAR Full FacepieceNeeds to be fit tested*

* Footnote 4 of the APF Table.

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Respirators are designed to reduce a worker’s exposureto airborne contaminants. Respirators come in varioussizes and must be individually selected to fit thewearer’s face and to provide a tight seal. A proper sealbetween the user’s face and the respirator forces the inhaled air through the respirator’s filter material andnot through gaps between the face and the respirator.Both the filtering facepiece (N95) respirators and thesurgical (N95) respirators must be fit tested to ensurethat a proper seal exists between the employee’s faceand the respirator. Both of the respirators provide protection from exposures to airborne influenza fluviruses. Whenever respirators are required by employees (e.g., N95 and Surgical N95 respirators),they must be NIOSH-certified and selected and used incompliance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard.

Surgical masks and surgical (N95) respirators are usedas a physical barrier to protect the user from hazards,such as large droplets of: splashes or sprays of humanand animal blood; any unfixed tissue, organs, tissueand organ cultures (including those from experimentalanimals); other secretions that are visibly contaminatedwith blood; and, all body fluids in situations where it isdifficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids. Surgical masks, by themselves, are not designedto seal tightly against the user’s face and are not subjectto fit testing. Surgical masks are not designed or certified to prevent the inhalation of small airborne particles that are not visible to the naked eye but maystill be capable of causing infection.

Filtering facepiece (N95) respirators, surgical (N95) respirators, and surgical masks

Surgical maskFiltering facepiece (N95)surgical mask

Surgical (N95) respirator


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Section (g): Use of respiratorsAs part of your written program, you must establishand implement procedures for the proper use of respirators in both routine jobs and emergencies. Specific procedures are required to:

• Prevent leaks in the respirator facepiece seal.

• Prevent employees from removing respirators inhazardous environments.

• Ensure that respirators operate effectively through-out the work shift.

• Protect employees entering IDLH atmospheres andinterior structural firefighting situations.

(g)(1) Preventing leaks in the facepiece seal

Facepiece seals and valves are important in tight-fittingrespirators. Tight-fitting respirators should be able toprovide a complete seal to the face. If there is a leak inthe seal of a tight-fitting respirator or valve, then therespirator cannot effectively reduce the wearer’s exposures to respiratory hazards. You must be sure thatnothing interferes with the seal of the respirator to theemployee’s face or with the valves. You must also ensure that employees check the seal of a tight-fittingrespirator by conducting a user seal check each timethe employee dons the respirator.

Conditions that can interfere with the seal or valveare specified in the standard and include:

• Facial hair;

• Facial scars;

• Jewelry or headgear that projects under the face-piece seal;

• Missing dentures; and

• Corrective glasses or goggles or other protectiveequipment such as:

- Face shields

- Protective clothing

- Helmets

- Eyeglass insert or spectacle kits

Employees may use this equipment with tight-fittingrespirators if you ensure that the equipment is worn ina way that:

• Does not interfere with the face-to-facepiece seal.

• Does not distort the employee’s vision.

• Does not cause physical harm to the employee (e.g.,if the eyeglass insert did not fit properly so that thetight fit of the respirator caused the insert to pressagainst his or her forehead, eyes, or temples).

CHECKLIST FOR FIT TESTING

√ Check all the fit tests listed below that are used atyour facility:

q Employees who are using tight-fitting respirator facepieces have passed an appropriate fit test prior to being required to use a respirator.

q Fit testing is conducted with the same make, model, style and size that the employee will be expected to use at the worksite.

q Fit tests are conducted annually and when different respirator facepieces are to be used.

q Provisions are made to conduct additional fit tests in the event of physical changes in the employee that may affect respirator fit.

q Employees are given the opportunity to select a different respirator facepiece, and be retested if their respirator fit is unacceptable to them.

q Fit tests are administered using OSHA-accepted QNFT or QLFT protocols.

q QLFT is only used to fit test either PAPRs, SCBAs, or negative pressure APRs that must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.

q QNFT is used in all situations where a negative pressure respirator is intended to protect workers from contaminant concentrations greater than 10 times the PEL.

q When QNFT is used to fit negative pressure respirators, a minimum fit factor of 100 is achieved for tight-fitting half facepieces and 500 for full facepieces.

For tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respiratorsand powered air-purifying respirators:

q Fit tests are conducted in the negative pressure mode.

q QLFT is achieved by temporarily converting the facepiece into a negative pressure respirator with appropriate filters, or by using an identical negative pressure APR.

q QNFT is achieved by modifying the facepiece to allow for sampling inside the mask midway between the nose and mouth. If the facepiece is permanently converted during fit testing, the respirator is no longer approved for workplace use.

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You must make sure that the employee’s eyeweardoes not interfere with the respirator seal, or that theworker has to remove the eyewear altogether.

What if an employee has a condition that does not interfere with the face-to-facepiece seal?

As long as the condition does not interfere with thefunction of the respirator valves, then the employee can wear a tight-fitting respirator, provided that the employee has no other conditions that interfere withthe face-to-facepiece seal or valve. For example, a mustache may not interfere with the facepiece seal butmay interfere with the valve function.

Do these restrictions apply to all types of respirators?

The restrictions for facial hair and other conditionsapply ONLY to tight-fitting respirators. Several respira-tory protection alternatives, such as loose-fitting hoodsor helmets, are available to accommodate employeeswith facial hair or with other conditions that might inter-fere with the seal of the facepiece to the face of the user.

Can employeess wear contact lenses?

Yes, contact lenses can be safely worn with respirators.

What is a user seal check?

You must be sure that employees perform user sealchecks each time they put on a tight-fitting respirator.User seal checks are a quick and easy way for employ-ees to verify that they have put on their respirators correctly and that the respirators are working properly.

To conduct a user seal check, the employee mustfollow either the procedures for a user seal check thatare contained in Appendix B-1 to § 1910.134: User SealCheck Procedures (Mandatory), or equally effective procedures that the respirator manufacturer recommends for conducting a user seal check. A copyof the standard is in Attachment 3 of this guide.

How are user seal checks conducted?

To conduct a user seal check, the employee performs anegative or positive pressure fit check.

For the negative pressure check, the employee:

• covers the respirator inlets (cartridges, canisters, orseals)

• gently inhales, and

• holds breath for 10 seconds.

The facepiece should collapse on the worker’s faceand remain collapsed.

For the positive pressure check, the worker:

• covers the respirator exhalation valve(s), and

• exhales.

The facepiece should hold the positive pressure fora few seconds. During this time, the employee shouldnot hear or feel the air leaking out of the face-to-face-piece seal. Appendix B-1 of the Respiratory Protectionstandard provides detailed instructions on how to con-duct the user seal check. Attachment 3 of this guideprovides a copy of the standard.

The manufacturer’s recommended procedures for checking the facepiece seal may be used if the employer demonstrates that the manufacturer’s procedures are as effective as those described in Appendix B-1 of the Respiratory Protection standard(i.e., these procedures are effective in identifying respirators that fit poorly when put on or adjusted).

Can a user seal check be used as a substitute for a qualitative fit test?

No, a user seal check is not a substitute for a qualitativefit test. Fit testing is a more rigorous procedure that isused to determine whether the respirator fits the face of the employee. Section (f) of this Compliance Guidecontains a complete discussion on respirator fit testing.(See fit testing in Appendix A of the standard; See userseal check in Appendix B-1 of the standard.) A copy ofthe standard is provided in Attachment 3 of this guide.

How can employers ensure that workers perform userseal checks?

A major purpose of the standard is to make sure thatthe fit and performance of the respirator is not compro-mised. You must take actions that will result in safework practices. Examples of these actions include:

• Providing training to workers

• Routinely observing work practices

• Routinely monitoring site conditions

• Consulting workers

Example of a worker performing a user seal check on a half mask elastomeric air-purifying respirator


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(g)(2) Continuing respirator effectiveness

You must be aware of conditions in work areas whereemployees are using respirators. You must also allowemployees to leave the respirator use area to performany activity that involves removing or adjusting a respirator facepiece, or if there is any indication that arespirator may not be fully effective. If there is any indication that they are not functioning properly, youmust repair or discard and replace respirators before allowing employees to return to an area in which respirator use is required.

Workplace conditions include the following:

• The level of the contaminant in relation to the APF

• The size and configuration of the workspace

• Ease of employee communication

• Ease or difficulty of the work or rate of activity

• The type of workplace tasks and proximity to thesource of contamination, e.g., cutting wood on aband saw would differ from hand polishing a woodveneer on furniture.

• Workplace conditions such as temperature and humidity or the location and movement of otherpersonnel and equipment.

How can I conduct appropriate surveillance?

“Appropriate surveillance” means that you must routinely look for any changes that may affect the effectiveness of a respirator. You must look for changesin the work area, such as changes in work tasks orprocesses, that can result in changes in the hazard orthe time period of exposure, or that put the employee incloser proximity to the hazard. Another change mightbe the addition of new machinery that would cause anemployee to exert more energy and breathe harder.

By “appropriate surveillance” OSHA means that youmust routinely observe employees as they work whilewearing respirators. By observing respirator use underactual workplace conditions, you can determine:

• Whether other protective equipment is interferingwith respirator use.

• Whether a change in working conditions may resultin exposure to new contaminants or an increase incontaminant exposure.

• Whether employees are experiencing discomfort,such as skin irritation or breakthrough of contami-nants through cartridges and canisters.

If any of these conditions exist, you must make adjustments – such as providing a more protective respirator or a different size or style of respirator, or altering work practices to reduce the stress on

employees – to ensure that employees continue to receive adequate respiratory protection.

When must employees leave the exposure areas tomaintain the integrity of their respirators?

To maintain their respirators, employees may, fromtime to time, need to leave the area where respiratoruse is required and go to a safe area free of respiratoryhazards and contaminants.

Employees must leave the respirator use area:

• If the employee needs to wash his or her face or therespirator facepiece to prevent eye or skin irritationassociated with respirator use.

• If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough(that is, the cartridge or canister is saturated withcontaminant and needs to be changed).

• If the employee notices that the facepiece is leaking.

• If the employee observes a change in breathing resistance (that is, the filter is full of dust or otherparticles and needs to be changed).

• If the respirator or parts of the respirator, such asvalves or straps, are not working properly and needto be replaced.

Employees need a “safe area” in the workplacewhere they can safely remove their respirators to washor conduct the maintenance necessary to ensure therespirator’s adequate operation. Through training andsupervision, employees must know the conditions ofrespirator use that require them to leave the exposureareas and go to a safe area.

Where does the safe area need to be located?

The safe area must be located in a place that is free ofrespiratory hazards or contamination. As long as theseconditions are met, the safe area can be in a locationthat minimizes interruptions to work flow.

How often do respirators need to be replaced or repaired?

There is no required replacement schedule for respirators in general. However, damaged respiratorscannot properly protect workers. Respirators need to bereplaced or repaired when one or more of their compo-nents is missing, damaged, or visibly deteriorated.

(g)(3) Procedures for Immediately Dangerous to Lifeor Health atmospheres and for interior structuralfirefighting

This section of the Respiratory Protection standard contains requirements for respirator use in IDLH environments. The standard defines IDLH as “an atmosphere that poses an immediate threat to life,

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would cause irreversible adverse health effects, orwould impair an individual’s ability to escape from adangerous atmosphere.” (See Section (d) of this guideor paragraphs (g)(3)-(4) of the standard.)

The provisions of paragraph (g)(3) of the RespiratoryProtection standard are requirements for respirator usein all IDLH atmospheres. Paragraph (g)(4) contains additional requirements applicable only to the extra-hazardous environments encountered during “interiorstructural fire fighting.” Information about “interiorstructural fire fighting” is explained further in section(g)(4) of the guide. OSHA considers interior structuralfirefighting environments to be IDLH environments.These two paragraphs, ((g)(3) and (g)(4)), deal with requirements for standby personnel and the respiratorusers inside the IDLH atmosphere. The standard requires standby personnel when employees use respirators in IDLH environments. These two provisionsensure that adequate rescue capability exists in case ofrespirator failure or some other emergency inside theIDLH environment.

Who are standby personnel?

Standby personnel are firefighters who remain outsidethe IDLH atmosphere. They must be available, trained,and equipped to assist respirator users inside the IDLHatmosphere, and to provide effective emergency res-cue, when needed.

You must be sure that standby personnel maintainvisual, voice, or signal line communication with the employees in the IDLH environment. Standby person-nel may use radios to communicate with workers insidethe IDLH environment. You must be sure that standbypersonnel notify you or your designated representativebefore entering the IDLH atmosphere. Once notified,you must provide necessary assistance appropriate tothe situation.

When do I need to have more than one standby personlocated outside the IDLH environment?

A single standby person is adequate if an IDLH environ-ment is well characterized and controlled, and if oneperson can easily maintain communication with all employees in the IDLH environment. Two stand-by personnel are required for interior structural firefight-ing. An IDLH atmosphere is “well characterized” if ithas been monitored and the results of the monitoringhave been analyzed, or if it has been through a process-hazard analysis. (Chemical plants conduct comprehen-sive process-hazard analyses as required by OSHA’sProcess Safety Management standard [29 CFR1910.119] to determine which process units pose IDLHhazards.)

Often, only one respirator user at a time is exposedto an IDLH atmosphere, and a single standby personcan easily monitor that employee’s status. Even in situations where more than one respirator user is insidean IDLH environment, a single standby person canoften provide adequate communication and support.For example, one standby person can easily communi-cate with more than one employee working inside asmall pump room or shed.

More than one standby person may be required forother situations. For example, to clean and paint the inside of a multi-level, multi-portal water tower, aprocess that often generates a deadly atmosphere as aresult of cleaning solutions and paint-solvent vapors,employees often enter the tower through different por-tals to work on different levels. In such a situation, therewill be a need for good communication at each entryportal, and more than one standby person would beneeded to maintain adequate communication and ac-cessibility (See also 29 CFR 1910.146, Confined Spaces).

When must standby personnel maintain communica-tion with employees in the IDLH atmosphere?

Standby personnel must maintain communication withemployees in the IDLH atmosphere at all times. Voice,visual, or hand signal line communication must be continuously maintained between the employee(s) inthe IDLH environment and the standby person. BecauseIDLH conditions present the potential for serious injuryor death, there is little margin for error in an IDLH environment. Equipment malfunction in an IDLH environment can swiftly disable employees, preventthem from leaving the environment, and lead to severeinjury or death. For this reason, close communicationbetween standby personnel and respirator users in theIDLH environment is critical.

When is radio communication acceptable?

Standby personnel must be in visual, voice, or signal-line communication with the employees inside the IDLHenvironment. However, standby personnel may com-municate by two-way radio (intrinsically safe) with em-ployees inside the IDLH environment, if use of visual,voice, or signal-line communication is not feasible. Astandby employee should have a telephone or radio tosummon additional help, and should not enter an IDLHenvironment for rescue until help arrives. The standbyperson also must be able to assist in providing or obtaining effective emergency assistance to employeesinside the IDLH environment. In interior structural firefighting situations, firefighters inside the burningstructure may communicate with one another by two-way radio, but they must also remain in visual or voicecontact with each other.


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Is voice communication the only acceptable method for employees in the IDLH environment and standbypersonnel to communicate with one another?

No, communication can be in the form of signal lines. Itis advisable to have several means of communicationsystems available, in the event that one form of com-munication fails.

What is appropriate training and equipment for thestandby personnel?

You must train the standby personnel to:

• Provide effective emergency rescue; and

• Notify you or your designated representative beforethe standby personnel enter the IDLH atmosphere toattempt an emergency rescue.

You must equip your standby personnel with the following:

• Pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBAs,or a pressure demand or other positive pressuresupplied-air respirator with auxiliary SCBA; and

• Either appropriate retrieval equipment for removingthe employees inside the IDLH atmosphere whereretrieval equipment would contribute to the rescueof the employees inside the IDLH atmosphere andwould not increase the overall risk resulting fromentry; or

• Equivalent means for rescue where retrieval equip-ment could increase the overall risk resulting fromentry.

• For employees involved in interior structural fire-fighting, standby personnel must be equipped withSCBAs.

Rescue personnel must be properly trained and protected before they enter the IDLH environment. TheHazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Responsestandard (29 CFR 1910.120) and the Permit-RequiredConfined Spaces standard (29 CFR 1910.146) provideguidance on the training and protective equipment thatis required. Situations exist in which retrieval lines (harnesses, wristlets, anklets) may pose an entangle-ment problem, especially in areas in which air lines orelectrical cords are present in the work areas in whichthe IDLH atmosphere occurs. Most of the time, however, rescue with retrieval equipment is effective,and much safer for the rescuers because the standbypersonnel do not have to enter the IDLH atmosphere.

If there is an emergency, can the standby provide immediate rescue assistance?

Your standby personnel must inform either you or your designated representative before attemptingemergency rescue within an IDLH environment. Your

designated representative may be a properly trainedemployee or response team, or local firefighting andemergency rescue personnel. In any case, properarrangements and procedures must be in place beforeyou can allow your employees to enter an IDLH envi-ronment. Once notified, you must provide necessaryassistance appropriate to the situation.

This provision of the standard ensures that youknow when an emergency has occurred so that you oryour designated representative can send in immediateadditional assistance to help in the rescue.

When should standby personnel enter the IDLH environment?

Under most circumstances, standby personnel shouldnot enter the IDLH environment until you or your desig-nated representative has responded to the notificationacknowledging that an emergency exists, that rescuepersonnel are entering the IDLH environment, and thatemergency response units are on their way to provideadditional assistance. You must provide standby personnel (rescuers) with proper respiratory equip-ment, and you must train and prepare your standbypersonnel to facilitate rescue attempts.

This notification provision does not require thatstandby employees should wait indefinitely for you oryour authorized designee to respond to notification before entering the IDLH atmosphere when your employees inside are in danger and standby personnelare appropriately trained and equipped to provide assistance. In the majority of cases, however, rescuersshould not enter the IDLH environment until receivingsome response from you (i.e., you or your designatedrepresentative should know that the rescuers are entering and emergency response units should be ontheir way to the incident).

How must I provide appropriate assistance in emergencies?

Once you or your designated representative has beennotified, you or your representative must provide thenecessary assistance appropriate for the situation. Youmust make sure that:

• Rescue operations are carried out appropriately

• Rescuers are provided with proper respiratoryequipment

• Designated employees are adequately prepared to conduct rescue attempts

You may not always need to send standby person-nel into the hazardous atmosphere. In some cases, theemployee within the IDLH environment will be able toget out on his or her own, or retrieval equipment may

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enable rescuers to retrieve the employee without enter-ing the hazardous atmosphere. In these instances, youmust be prepared to provide employees inside IDLH atmospheres and standby personnel employees withemergency medical treatment.

You should consult OSHA’s rules on confined spaces(29 CFR 1910.146) and on hazardous waste operationsand emergency response (29 CFR 1910.120) for otherprovisions that may apply to IDLH environments.

(g)(4) Procedures for interior structural firefighting

This portion of the standard applies to employees engaged in interior structural firefighting only. FederalOSHA does not cover public employees such as fire-fighters. However, public employees are covered by theState OSHA programs in the 27 states that operate theirown state programs.

What is interior structural firefighting?

Interior structural firefighting is firefighting to control orextinguish a fire in an advanced stage of burning insidea building. Because the fire is producing large amountsof smoke, heat, and toxic products of combustion, exposure of firefighters is extremely hazardous and theenvironment is considered IDLH.

For interior structural firefighting, you must havetwo employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remainin visual or voice contact with one another at all times.You must also have two standby personnel located outside the IDLH atmosphere (two-in, two-out); all employees engaged in interior structural firefightingmust use SCBAs.

Are all firefighters engaged in interior structural firefighting covered by the standard?

Yes, when OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard isapplied to private-sector employees engaged in fire-fighting covered under Section 19 of the OccupationalSafety and Health Act. These employees include thoseworking in industrial fire brigades and private incorpo-rated fire companies. Federal agencies must complywith the Respiratory Protection standard or an equallystringent standard, pursuant to Executive Order 12196and 29 CFR 1960.17, covered under Section 6 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (with a general exemption for military personnel and operations).

There are 27 states and territories that enforce occupational safety and health requirements. In thesestates and territories, enforcement of occupationalsafety and health requirements is by the State agencyresponsible for the OSHA-approved state plan. Thesestates are required to extend their coverage to state andlocal government employees, including public sector

firefighters, who are not otherwise covered by FederalOSHA. The states and territories operating OSHA-approved state plans are: Alaska, Arizona, California,Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan,Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah,Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming. Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and the Virgin Islands operate OSHA-approved state plans that applyto state and local government employees only.

Coverage of volunteer firefighters varies by Stateand depends on State law. State and local governmentemployees in states that do not operate OSHA-approved state plans are not covered by these requirements, unless the requirements are voluntarilyadopted for local applicability.

What additional requirements apply to interior structural firefighting?

In addition to the requirements for all IDLH atmos-pheres, if your employees are involved in interior structural firefighting, you must be certain that:

• At least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphereand remain in visual or voice contact with one another at all times and at least two employees arelocated outside the IDLH atmosphere, namely the“two in, two out” policy.

• All employees engaged in interior structural fire-fighting use SCBAs.

• Although two individuals must always be locatedoutside the IDLH atmosphere, one may be assignedto an additional role, such as incident command,pump operations, or operator of the fire apparatus –so long as this individual is able to perform assistance or rescue activities without jeopardizingthe safety or health of any firefighter working at theincident. Any assignment of additional duties to the second firefighter must be weighed against thepotential for the additional duties to interfere withassistance or rescue activities.

Must firefighters wait until four employees are assembled before attempting to rescue victims insidethe burning structure?

No, there is an explicit exemption in the RespiratoryProtection standard that states that if life is in jeopardythe “two-in, two-out” requirement is waived. The incident commander and the firefighters at the scenemust decide whether the risks posed by entering the interior structural fire before at least four firefightershave assembled is outweighed by the need to rescue avictim whose life may be at risk.


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accomplish this you must have a system of respiratorcare and maintenance as a component of your respira-tory protection program. Regular care and maintenanceis important to ensure that the equipment functions asdesigned and protects the user from the threat of illnessor death.

Your system of respirator care and maintenancemust provide for:

• cleaning and disinfection procedures

• proper storage

• regular inspections

• repair methods

(h)(1) Cleaning and disinfecting

Respirator equipment must be regularly cleaned anddisinfected according to specified procedures (See Appendix B-2 of the standard; a copy of the standard isprovided at Attachment 3 of this guide) or according to manufacturer specifications that are of equivalent effectiveness.

Cleaning and disinfection procedures are divided intothe following:

• Disassembly of components

• Cleaning and disinfecting

• Rinsing, drying and reassembly

• Testing

How often must respirators be cleaned and disinfected?

The frequency of cleaning and disinfecting or sanitizingrespirators will depend in part on whether your em-ployees share the equipment or are issued respiratorsfor their exclusive use. Worksite conditions also dictatecleaning frequency; e.g., working in a dirty environmentwill require that the respirator facepiece, in particular,be cleaned more frequently. The frequency must benoted in your written respiratory protection plan.

At a minimum:

If a respirator is...

• issued for the exclusive use of an individual employee, the equipment must be cleaned and disinfected as often as necessary to be maintainedin clean and sanitary condition.

• used by more than one employee, the equipmentmust be cleaned and disinfected before being usedby different individuals.

• maintained for use in emergencies, testing, andtraining exercises, the equipment must be cleanedand disinfected after each use.

CHECKLIST FOR PROPER USE OF RESPIRATORS

√ Check your facility to be certain that:

q Employees using tight-fitting respirators have no conditions, such as facial hair, that would interfere with a face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.

q Employees wear corrective glasses, goggles, or other protective equipment in a manner that does not interfere with the face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.

q Employees perform user seal checks prior to each use of a tight-fitting respirator.

q There are procedures for conducting ongoing surveillance of the work area for conditions that affect respirator effectiveness, and that, when such conditions exist, you take steps to address those situations.

q Employees are permitted to leave their work area to conduct respirator maintenance, such as washing the facepiece, or to replace respirator parts.

q Employees do not return to their work area until their respirator has been repaired or replaced in the event of a breakthrough, a leak in the face-piece, or a change in breathing resistance.

q There are procedures for respirator use in IDLH atmospheres and during interior structural firefighting to ensure that: the appropriate numberof standby personnel are deployed; standby personnel and workers in the IDLH environ-ment maintain communication; standby personnelare properly trained, equipped, and prepared; you will be notified when standby personnel enter an IDLH atmosphere; and you will respond appropri-ately to this notification.

q Standby personnel are equipped with a pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBA, or a positive pressure supplied-air respirator with an escape SCBA, and appropriate retrieval equipmentor other means for rescue.

q Procedures for interior structural firefighting require that: at least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remain in contact with one another at all times; at least two standby person-nel are used; and all firefighting employees use SCBAs.

Section (h): Maintenance and care of respiratorsYou must provide respirator users with equipment that is clean, sanitary, and in good working order. To

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Who is responsible for cleaning and disinfecting respirators?

You may choose the program that best meets the needsof your workplace. For example, you may use a central-ized operation where employees receive respiratorsthat have been cleaned, disinfected and repaired byemployees assigned to this task. You also may requirethat each respirator wearer be responsible for cleaningand maintaining his or her own equipment. In eithercase, you must provide the necessary equipment andsupplies and, in addition, you must provide appropriatetraining and allow on-the-job time for the training andfor the cleaning and maintenance of respirators.

(h)(2) Storage

What are the proper storage procedures for respirators?

You must store respirators in a manner that:

• Protects them from contamination, dust, sunlight,extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, damag-ing chemicals, or other destructive conditions.

• Prevents the facepiece or valves from becoming deformed.

• Follows all storage precautions issued by the respirator manufacturer.

In addition, if a respirator is for emergency use, itmust be:

• Kept accessible to the work area, but not in an areathat may itself become involved in an emergencyand become contaminated or inaccessible.

• Stored in a compartment or cover (e.g., on a firetruck) that is clearly identified as containing emergency equipment.

• Stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

(h)(3) Inspection

How often must respirators be inspected, and whatprocedures do I follow?

The frequency of and procedures for inspections depend on whether the respirator is designed for non-emergency, emergency, or escape-only use.

All respirator inspections must include:

• A check of respirator function, tightness of connec-tions, and the condition of the various parts, includ-ing, but not limited to the facepiece, head straps,valves, connecting tubes, and cartridges, canisters,or filters. A visual inspection of the respirator mayidentify parts that may be missing, distorted,blocked, loose, deteriorated, or otherwise interferewith proper performance. (See (g)(2) of the standard.)

• A check of elastomeric (rubber) parts for pliabilityand deterioration.

In addition, inspect:

• Non-emergency use equipment. Before each useand during cleaning and disinfection.

• Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).Monthly, making sure the air and oxygen cylindersthat are available for immediate use are maintainedin a fully charged state (i.e., pressure is not below90% of manufacturer’s recommended level). Youmust also activate the regulator and low pressurewarning devices to ensure that they function properly.

• Emergency use respirators. At least monthly, checking for proper functioning before and aftereach use. When inspecting these types of respiratorsyou must:

- Document the date of inspection, name or signature of inspector, inspection findings, any remedial action required, and serial number orother identification of the respirator.

- Retain this information with the respirator, in thestorage compartment or inspection report untilthe next certification. You may use tags or labelsto document the inspections.

• Emergency escape-only equipment. Before beingcarried into the workplace for use.

The frequency must be noted in your written respiratory protection plan.

(h)(4) Repairs

What do I do if a respirator fails to pass inspection?

If a respirator does not pass inspection, you must remove the respirator from service and discard, repair,or adjust it. Tagging out-of-service respirators is a goodmeans for ensuring that defective respirators are not inadvertently used.

When must I replace or repair respirators?

You must replace or repair respirators that are notworking properly. Respirators should not be used ifthey are defective in any way. You must replace or repair a defective respirator whenever the employeedetects vapor or gas breakthrough, changes in breathing resistance, or facepiece leakage, and beforeallowing the employee to return to the work area whererespirator use is required.

Who performs the repair work?

Respirators may be repaired only by an appropriatelytrained person who must use NIOSH-certified parts


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that are designed for the particular respirator being repaired.

Valves, regulators, and alarms must be adjusted and repaired only by the manufacturer or a techniciantrained by the manufacturer.

What are some examples of when a respirator shouldbe removed from service?

• An alarm system is not functioning on an SCBA.

• A respirator strap, buckle, or connection is damagedor missing.

• The mask portion of a respirator is misshapen or de-graded and can no longer form a good seal aroundthe user’s face.

Section (i): Breathing air quality and useThis section of the Respiratory Protection standard requires you to provide employees who are wearing atmosphere-supplying respirators with breathing air ofhigh purity. Respirators that supply breathing air aregenerally used in highly hazardous work environments.It is critical that such respirator systems provide qualitybreathing air and that the equipment operates reliably.

More broadly, you are required to establish or con-tinue a respiratory protection program that follows per-formance standards for the operation and maintenanceof breathing air compressors, methods for ensuringbreathing air quality, and requirements for the quality ofpurchased breathing air.

CHECKLIST FOR RESPIRATOR MAINTENANCEAND CARE

√ Check to make sure that your facility has met thefollowing requirements:

Cleaning and disinfecting:

q Respirators are provided that are clean, sanitary, and in good working order.

q Respirators are cleaned and disinfected using the procedures specified in Appendix B-2 of the standard.

Respirators are cleaned and disinfected:

q As often as necessary when issued for the exclusive use of one employee.

q Before being worn by different individuals.

q After each use for emergency use respirators.

q After each use for respirators used for fit testing and training.

Storage:

q Respirators are stored to protect them from damage from the elements, and from becoming deformed.

Emergency respirators are stored:

q To be accessible to the work area.

q In compartments marked as such.

q In accord with manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspections:

q Routine-use respirators are inspected before each use and during cleaning.

q SCBAs and emergency respirators are inspected monthly and checked for proper functioning before and after each use.

q Emergency escape-only respirators are inspected before being carried into the workplace for use.

Inspections include:

q Check of respirator function.

q Tightness of connections.

q Condition of the facepiece, head straps, valves, cartridges, and other parts.

q Condition of elastomeric parts.

For SCBAs, inspections include:

q Check that cylinders are fully charged.

q Check that regulators function properly.

q Check that warning devices function properly.

For emergency use respirators, inspections include:

q Certification by documenting the inspection, and by tagging the information either to the respirator or its compartment, or storing it with inspection reports.

Repairs:

q Respirators that have failed inspection are taken out of service.

q Repairs are made only by trained personnel.

q Only NIOSH-certified parts are used.

q Reducing and admission valves, regulators and alarms are adjusted or repaired only by the manufacturer or a technician trained by the manufacturer.

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The requirements detailed in this section are criticalfor ensuring the integrity of high purity breathing air for use with respirators, whether the air is delivered in tanks by a supplier or produced on site using a compressor. Also, it is your responsibility to ensure thatpractices are in place for protecting the quality ofbreathing air while stored in containers and when beingused by employees. These requirements are essentialfor protecting respirator-wearing employees from exposure to airborne contaminants.

As detailed below, when using atmosphere-supplying respirators you must:

• Provide breathing air that meets certain specifica-tions.

• Develop procedures to ensure the proper use ofcompressed gas cylinders and air compressors.

• Implement certain precautions to avoid improperuse of couplings on airline systems and confusionabout breathing air containers.

• Implement certain precautions to prevent exposureto carbon monoxide when using air compressors.

How is breathing air delivered to the respirator user?

Air compressors capture air from the surrounding envi-ronment, filter it, remove oil (if necessary), compress itto increase its density, and deliver the air through a sys-tem of regulators that brings the air back down to abreathable pressure for the respirator user.

With SCBA units, the pressurized breathing air istransferred from the tank to the respirator user throughregulators that decrease the pressure to a level that ahuman can breathe. Because there is a fixed amount ofair in the tank, the user can only rely on it for a givenperiod of time. That time varies based on the size of the tank, the amount of pressure in the tank, and thephysical effort required by the respirator user. Usetimes range from 20 minutes for low pressure tanks(2,500 psi) to 45 minutes for high pressure tanks (4,500psi) with moderate physical effort.

The air delivered by both types of systems is atslightly greater than atmospheric pressure, which as-sists in preventing contaminated air from seepingthrough gaps in the facepiece.

Breathing air that is supplied "on demand" ratherthan provided constantly to the user, as in a constantflow type device, is able to be used with a large, compressed air cylinder of breathable air or a bank ofcylinders set up in cascading fashion. Cascadingbreathing air assemblies can be designed to providebreathing air from several assemblies. A pressure reducing regulator is supplied to deliver the correct

pressure recommended by the respirator manufacturer.Air cascading simply means equalizing the pressure between the cylinder to be refilled and the next lowestsupply cylinder. If this process does not get the desiredpressure in the small cylinder, the supply cylinder isturned off and the next highest supply cylinder isopened and the pressure allowed to equalize betweenthe two cylinders. A low pressure warning whistle, orbell, is supplied to notify the user that the cascade system has dropped below specified levels. Checkvalves are installed on each cylinder stem to preventpressure equalization. These valves also allow the userto independently change cylinders without depressuriz-ing the complete system.

(i)(1) Specifications for breathing air

You must ensure that compressed air, compressed oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen meet certain specifications as outlined below for breathing by employees wearing atmosphere-supplying respirators.Unless you produce your own breathing air from acompressor, you can rely on certificates of analysisfrom air suppliers to ensure that breathing air meets the required specifications.

Types of Breathing Air

Compressed air is the most common type of breathing-air system used in worksite applications because it isthe most convenient and least expensive. Compressedair is provided either through compressed air cylindersor air compressors at relatively high pressures. Regulators are used to ensure that breathing air supplied to respirators is provided at pressures that are safe for employees to breathe.

Other types of breathing air systems include liquidair, compressed oxygen, and liquid oxygen. Liquid air is air that exists in a liquid state, which is achieved bycompressing purified air and chilling it to a temperaturebelow the boiling point of its principal components (i.e.,nitrogen and oxygen). Compressed oxygen systems areused in limited applications because they present a significant fire hazard. Liquid oxygen is quite expensiveand also presents a significant fire hazard. It is generallyused only in very specialized applications.

(i)(1)(i) Compressed and liquid oxygen

Such forms of compressed oxygen must meet the U.S.Pharmacopeia requirements for medical or breathingoxygen.

(i)(1)(ii) Compressed breathing air

Any compressed breathing air must meet at least the requirements for Grade D breathing air described in “Compressed Gas Association Commodity


5 1

Specification for Air” (CGA G-7.1-1989). This specifica-tion requires that:

(A) Oxygen content in compressed breathing air mustbe 19.5 to 23.5 percent of the total volume of air.

(B) Condensed hydrocarbon content in compressedbreathing air must be 5 milligrams (mg) per each cubicmeter (m3) of air or less.

(C) Carbon monoxide content in compressed breathingair must be 10 parts per million (ppm) or less.

(D) Carbon dioxide content in compressed breathing airmust be 1,000 ppm or less.

(E) There must be a lack of any noticeable odor fromthe compressed breathing air.

(i)(2)&(3) Oxygen use

Explosion/fire hazard from compressor oil and grease.You must prohibit employees from using compressedoxygen in respirators that have previously been usedwith compressed air. The reason for this prohibition isthat oil and grease can be introduced into respirator airlines used for compressed air, posing a danger of fireor explosion from the high pressure oxygen coming incontact with the oil or grease. Airline systems containinline filters for capturing impurities so that the respirator user will not inhale the oil or grease.

Explosion/fire hazard from high concentration oxygen.You must ensure that employees use oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5 percent only withequipment designed specifically for oxygen service anddistribution. Such equipment is specifically designed tominimize the risk of fire or explosion posed by the highconcentration of oxygen.

(i)(4) Cylinder use

You must ensure that cylinders used with atmosphere-supplying respirators meet the following requirements:

• Cylinders of breathing air must be tested and main-tained according to Department of Transportation(DOT) Shipping Container Specification Regulations(49 CFR Parts 173 and 178), which include provisionsfor the construction, testing, and maintenance ofcylinders. These steps are necessary to prevent explosions that can result from a rupture in a breath-ing air cylinder under high pressure. (Additionalguidance is available in 29 CFR 1910.101(b), whichincludes provisions for in-plant handling and storage of compressed gas cylinders.)

• Cylinders of purchased breathing air must be accompanied by a certificate from the supplier indicating that the contents of each cylinder havebeen tested and found to meet the criteria for Grade

D breathing air. This certification will provide youwith a reasonable assurance that the breathing airsupplied to your employees is safe.

• Cylinder contents must have a moisture level thatdoes not exceed a dew point of minus 50° Fahren-heit (F) (minus 45.6° Celsius [C]) at 1 atmospherepressure. (Dew point refers to the temperature atwhich the air is saturated with moisture.) This requirement prevents respirator valves from freezing when excess moisture accumulates on thevalves, which can cause blockages in the flow ofbreathing air. You should verify with the supplierthat the breathing air meets this requirement.

(i)(5)-(7) Compressor use

You must ensure that compressors used with atmosphere-supplying respirators provide breathing air according to the following requirements:

(i)(5)(i) Location of compressor during use

The location of an air compressor during use is very important to maintain the purity of the supplied breath-ing air. For this reason, an air compressor in use mustbe located so that the air intake component is not drawing from areas that contain:

• Combustion exhaust from vehicles or the compressor itself.

• Plant process exhaust, which should be exhaustedto the outside by the facility’s ventilation system.

• Contaminated air from hazardous work areas.

(i)(5)(ii) Low moisture content of ambient air

The moisture content of compressed air must be kept to aminimum to prevent freezing of respirator valves at coldtemperatures, which can cause blockages in the flow ofbreathing air. To ensure a low moisture content, the dewpoint at 1 atmosphere must be 10° F (5.56° C) below theambient temperature (e.g., in plant).

Are there any systems for keeping moisture from getting into a compressor?

Water traps or desiccators can keep moisture out of acompressor. These systems remove the water from theair as it is run through the compressor, ensuring a cer-tain level of dryness when it comes out. Such systems,like all other parts of a compressor, must be maintainedin accord with the manufacturer’s instructions to prop-erly remove the moisture.

(i)(5)(iii) Inline air purification

Suitable air-purifying beds and filters must be used inthe supply lines to ensure delivery of a continuous flowof Grade D breathing air to the respirator user. (A

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sorbent bed is a filter designed to capture impurities inthe air.) You must maintain, refurbish, or replace inlinesorbent beds and filters as specified by the equipmentmanufacturer.

(i)(5)(iv) Tracking of bed and filter changes

You must ensure that a tag is maintained at/on the compressor with a note indicating when the sorbentbeds and filters were last changed. The notation mustinclude the signature of the person you have authorizedto perform the bed and filter maintenance. Only a tagindicating the most recent filter and bed changes needsto be retained at/on the compressor.

Requirements Regarding Carbon Monoxide

You must take certain precautions in regard to carbonmonoxide when using compressors with atmosphere-supplying respirators.

These precautions are required because:

• Exposure to carbon monoxide above certain levelscan be fatal.

• Sources of this potentially lethal gas are fairly common in many worksites. (In fact, one source of carbon monoxide is the exhaust from the compressor itself.)

• You will not be able to detect the presence of carbonmonoxide because it is an odorless gas.

• The types of precautions you will need to take depend on the type of compressor you use.

(i)(6) Compressors that are not oil lubricated

With this type of compressor, you must ensure that carbon monoxide in the breathing air is less than orequal to 10 ppm. This can be achieved by:

• Locating the compressor’s air intake component inan area free of contaminants

• Conducting continuous or frequent monitoring ofthe breathing air supply

• Using inline carbon monoxide filters

• Using high-temperature alarms or shut-off devices

(i)(7) Compressors that are oil lubricated

With this type of compressor, carbon monoxide can begenerated when oil enters the combustion chamberand is partially combusted. Therefore, you must ensurethat the compressor operates with a carbon monoxidealarm or a high-temperature alarm. Carbon monoxidealarms provide better protection than high-temperaturealarms because the high-temperature alarms only detect carbon monoxide generated in the combustion

chamber, and not carbon monoxide resulting from apoorly located compressor intake. Furthermore, hightemperature alarms are installed more for the purposeof protecting the compressor from damage than forguarding employees from exposure to carbon monoxide. Because of this, the alarm component of the system is often located with the alarm sensor where it may not be heard by the respirator users. Consequently, if the compressor has only a high-temperature alarm, you must ensure that air quality isfrequently monitored to confirm that carbon monoxidelevels stay below 10 ppm.

How often should I check on carbon monoxide levels?

Periodic monitoring for carbon monoxide is acceptablewhen using newer, well-maintained compressors. Continuous monitoring, however, is recommended forolder compressors. In older equipment, oil may enterthe air supply more readily due to piston ring or cylinder wear. Continuous monitoring also should beconducted for rented or second-hand compressors because the maintenance history is likely to be unknown or uncertain.

How do I check carbon monoxide levels?

Carbon monoxide levels can be tested with two generaltypes of devices:

• Direct reading instruments that use electrochemicalsensors

• Chemical detector tubes

Although the electrochemical devices tend to bemore expensive, they are also more accurate (i.e., theyhave a 5 percent error rate). Also, such devices must becalibrated periodically (usually monthly) to achieve ac-curate readings. Calibration services provide traceablecalibrations using a wide variety of multimeter devices.

Newer generations of electrochemical sensors use a meter with built-in advanced features that enhance reliability and repeatability. These may also have auto-zero features to eliminate manual calibration. Thecarbon monoxide meter shows carbon monoxide levels(0–1000 ppm) on a large, backlit liquid crystal display(LCD) and have hold functions to store and display themaximum carbon monoxide level.

Chemical detector tubes have an error rate of 10 to 15 percent. Carbon monoxide filters (i.e., filters thatconvert carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide) with color-change indicators may not be used as carbonmonoxide monitors because the color change indicatesthe presence of moisture, not carbon monoxide.

Other devices, such as carbon monoxide probes andaspirator kits provide additional functions. Probes have


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both light-emitting diodes (LED) that provide backlight-ing for indicators and beepers that trigger with increasing frequency as carbon monoxide levels rise.Optional aspirator kits let the user draw flue gas samples up to 370 degrees C (700 degrees F).

Must each of these methods be used for compressorsthat are not oil lubricated?

No, you must use whichever of the above methods arenecessary to ensure that carbon monoxide does notcontaminate the breathing air. In some cases, onemethod may be all that is needed. In other cases, youmay be required to use more than one of these methods.

You must evaluate your own worksite conditions to determine which measures are needed to preventcarbon monoxide from contaminating breathing air.

(i)(8) Precautions regarding couplings

You must ensure that couplings used on airlines for atmosphere-supplying respirators are incompatiblewith outlets for nonbreathable worksite air or other gas systems. This precaution must be taken to avoid thechance of inadvertently connecting a respirator to asource other than the breathing air. Such a mistakecould result in serious illness or death. Also, you mustensure that at no time is an asphyxiating substance introduced into a respirator’s airlines. For example, aninert gas such as nitrogen must not be used to purge orclean breathing airlines.

(i)(9) Labeling of breathing gas containers

You must ensure that breathing air containers are labeled in keeping with the NIOSH respirator certifica-tion standard (42 CFR 84). The NIOSH standard incorpo-rates ANSI’s Method of Marking Portable CompressedGas Containers to Identify Material Contained (Z48.1-1971). Proper labeling of containers will avoid the possi-bility of confusion when connecting the breathing airsource to the respirator.

CHECKLIST FOR BREATHING AIR QUALITY AND USE

√ Check that at your facility:

General

q Compressed breathing air meets the requirementsfor Grade D breathing air.

q Compressed oxygen is not used in respirators thathave previously used compressed air.

q Oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5 percent are used only in equipment designed for oxygen service or distribution.

q Breathing air couplings are incompatible with outlets for other gas systems.

q Breathing gas containers are marked in accord with the NIOSH certification standard.

q Carbon monoxide levels are monitored for both oil and gas compressors.

Breathing Air Cylinders

q Cylinders are tested and maintained according to DOT 49 CFR Parts 173 and 178.

q A certificate of analysis for breathing air has been obtained from the supplier.

q Moisture content in the cylinder does not exceed a dew point of -50°F at 1 atmosphere pressure.

Compressors

q Are constructed and situated to prevent contami-nated air from getting into the system.

q Are set up to minimize the moisture content.

q Are equipped with in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters that are maintained or replaced following manufacturer’s instructions.

q Are tagged with information on the most recent change date of the filter and an authorizing signature.

q Carbon monoxide does not exceed 10 ppm in the breathing air from compressors that are not oil-lubricated.

q High-temperature or carbon monoxide alarms are used on oil-lubricated compressors; monitor the air often enough to ensure that carbon monoxide does not exceed 10 ppm if only a high-tempera-ture alarm is used.

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Section (j): Identification of filters,cartridges and canistersThis section of the standard requires you to ensure thatall filters, cartridges and canisters used are labeled andcolor coded with the NIOSH approval label. You mustalso ensure that the label is not removed and remainslegible.

To fulfill these requirements, you should adopt appro-priate procedures for ensuring that:

• Only NIOSH-certified filters, cartridges and canistersare used

• Labels are not removed, defaced, or obscured during respirator usage

Your written respiratory protection program must in-clude these provisions.

What is included on the NIOSH label?

The label clearly states the class of contaminants forwhich the filter, cartridge, or canister may be used (e.g.,permissible particulate respirator filter for dusts, fumesand mists, including asbestos-containing dusts andmists and radionuclides). The NIOSH certification number and any limitations or precautions are also included on the label.

What is the purpose of the label?

The NIOSH label serves several purposes. It ensures selection of the appropriate cartridge/canister for thecontaminants found in the workplace. Also, it permitsthe employee using the respirator to check and confirmthat the respirator has the appropriate filters before therespirator is used. Further, the color coding scheme allows fellow employees, supervisors and the respira-tory protection program administrator to readily deter-mine that the worker is using the appropriate filter.

Can I write the date of initial use on the label?

Yes, marking the initial use date on the label can bedone if it does not obscure the information on the label.

Section (k): Training and informationThis section of the Respiratory Protection standard requires you to train your employees on all the essen-tial elements that help protect the employees while theyuse respirators. Some of these components answer thefollowing questions, among others: why the respiratoris needed; how must the respirator be maintained; and,what steps should the employee take when respiratorsfail to function or in emergency situations. Training onfit testing for negative pressure respirators and theneed for user seal checks after donning respirators isimportant for the employee to determine how well arespirator fits. Employee training is a critical part of a

successful respiratory protection program and is essential for correct respirator use. You must providetraining to your employees who are required to wearrespirators.

(k)(1) Content of training

You must ensure that each worker can demonstrateknowledge of at least the following:

• Why the respirator is necessary and how improperfit, usage and maintenance can make the respiratorineffective.

- Training must include the identification of hazards,the extent of employee exposure to those hazards,and the potential health effects of exposure. The training that is required under the Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) cansatisfy this requirement for chemical hazards. Employees must understand that proper fit,usage, and maintenance of respirators is critical to ensure that they can perform their protectivefunction.

• The limitations and capabilities of the selected respirator.

- Training must address how the respirator oper-ates. Included must be an explanation of how therespirator provides protection by filtering the air,absorbing the gas or vapor, or by supplying aclean source of air. Limitations on the use of theequipment, such as prohibitions against using anair-purifying respirator in an IDLH atmosphere,and why not, must also be explained.

- Training must address the possibility of respiratormalfunction and the development of emergencysituations specific to the worksite. Employeesmust understand what procedures are to be followed in such circumstances, and which procedures require use of a different respirator.

• How to properly select cartridges and canisters andknow the assigned cartridge and canister changeschedules for the devices selected.

- Training must address how to use the respiratoreffectively in terms of the use of cartridges andcanisters, the exposures the cartridges are designed to address, and knowledge of the estimated service life of cartridges.

• How to use the respirator effectively in emergencysituations.

- Training must address how to use a respirator effectively in emergency situations, which are occurrences such as, but not limited to, respiratormalfunctions or failures, rupture of containers, orfailure of control equipment that may or does


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result in an uncontrolled substantial release of anairborne contaminant. Respirators malfunction onoccasion, work routines change, and emergencysituations occur that require a different respirator.The training program must discuss these possibilities and the procedures the employer hasestablished to deal with them. Such training isnecessary when respirators are to be used in IDLHsituations, including oxygen-deficient atmos-pheres, such as those that occur in firefighting,rescue operations and confined area entry.

• How to inspect, put on and remove, use and checkthe seals of the respirator.

- You must train employees how to recognize problems that may decrease the effectiveness of the respirator and what steps to follow if aproblem is detected, such as the person to whom problems should be reported and wherereplacement equipment can be obtained ifneeded. If specialized personnel conduct inspec-tions, individual respirator wearers only need tobe taught about the portions of the inspectionprocess that are their responsibility. You must also cover how to properly put on and remove therespirator to ensure that respirator fit in the work-place is as close as possible to the fit obtainedduring fit testing. Employees must be trained toperform user seal checks. (See Appendix B-1 ofthe standard.)

• The respirator maintenance and storage procedures.

- The extent of training required may vary according to workplace conditions. If employeesare individually responsible for storing and maintaining respirators, detailed training may benecessary. If specialized personnel perform thesefunctions, employees only need to be informed ofthe general maintenance and storage procedures.

• How to recognize medical signs and symptoms thatmay limit or prevent effective use of the respirator.

- You must instruct employees to recognize medicalsigns and symptoms, such as shortness of breathor dizziness that may limit or prevent effective useof respirators.

• The general requirements of the Respiratory Protec-tion standard.

- You must ensure that employees are aware, ingeneral, of your obligations under the standard.This discussion need not focus on the standard’sprovisions but could, for example, simply informemployees that employers are obligated to develop a written program, properly select respirators, evaluate respirator use, correct

deficiencies in respirator use, conduct medicalevaluations, provide for the maintenance, storageand cleaning of respirators, and retain and provideaccess to specific records.

Do I need to follow a particular format?

No. As long as the required topics are addressed, youcan use whatever training method is effective. Preparedmaterials, such as audiovisual and slide presentations,formal classroom instruction, informal discussions dur-ing safety meetings, training programs developed orconducted by unions or respirator manufacturers, or acombination of these methods may be used.

In what sense are employees expected to be able to“demonstrate knowledge” of proper respirator usebased on the training?

You must ensure that, before an employee is requiredto use a respirator in the workplace, he or she under-stands the information provided and can use the respirator properly. This can be done by reviewing thetraining with the employee either orally or in writing,and by reviewing the employee’s hands-on use of respirators.

(k)(2) Comprehension of training

Training must be conducted in a manner that is understandable to your employees. This means thatyour program should be tailored to your employees’education level and language background.

(k)(3) Timing of training

You must provide the required training prior to having an employee use a respirator in the workplace.

(k)(4) Portability of training

If you can demonstrate that a new employee has received training within the last 12 months and candemonstrate the necessary knowledge, you are not required to repeat this training. In cases where trainingin some elements is lacking or inadequate, you are required to provide training in those elements. Previoustraining that has been transported with the employee(i.e., not repeated initially) must be provided no laterthan 12 months from the date of the previous training.

(k)(5) Retraining

You must retrain employees in the proper use of respi-rators annually. You must also retrain employees when:

• Changes in the workplace or the type of respiratormake previous training obsolete.

• The knowledge and skill necessary to use the respira-tor properly has not been retained by the employee.

• Any other situation arises in which retraining

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appears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

(k)(6) Information for voluntary respirator users

For employees who choose to wear a respirator but arenot required to do so, you are required to provide theadvisory information in Appendix D of the standard. Acopy of the standard is provided in Attachment 3 of thisguide. This basic information on the proper use of respirators can be presented to the employee eitherverbally or in written form. Training is usually not required for employees who are not required to wearrespirators, i.e., for employees who are wearing respirators voluntarily.

Section (l): Program Evaluation

(l)(1) Conducting program evaluations

You must perform evaluations of the workplace as necessary to make sure that your written respiratoryprotection program is working effectively.

How often do I need to evaluate my written respiratoryprotection program?

You do not need to review your respiratory protectionprogram according to any fixed schedule. The frequency with which you need to evaluate your respiratory protection program will depend on the complexity and/or variability of the program and factorssuch as:

• The type and extent of hazards in your workplace.

• The types of respirators used by your employees.

• The number of your employees who use respirators.

• The amount of experience your respirator-wearingemployeess have in using respirators.

You must evaluate respirator use with sufficient fre-quency to ensure that all elements of the respiratoryprotection program are being effectively implemented.

(l)(2) Consulting with employees

You must regularly consult with employees required to wear respirators to assess their views on the effectiveness of the respiratory protection program andto identify any problems that they may be encounteringwith the use of respirators. You must correct any problems that are identified.

At a minimum, you must assess:

• Whether proper fit of respirators is being achieved,and whether respirator use is interfering with effective work performance.

• Whether appropriate respirators have been selected.

• Whether respirators are being properly used.

• Whether respirators are being properly maintained.

When I consult with my employees, what should I askthem?

You may want to ask your workers questions such as:

• Does your respirator interfere with your hearing orvision?

• Do you experience fatigue or have difficulty breath-ing during respirator use?

• Does your respirator restrict your movements or interfere with your job performance in any way?

• Is your respirator uncomfortable?

CHECKLIST FOR TRAINING AND INFORMATION

√ Check that your facility provides the following:

Demonstration of employees’ knowledge of:

q Why the respirator is necessary and the conse-quences of improper fit, use, or maintenance.

q The limitations and capabilities of the respirator.

q How to effectively use the respirator in emergencysituations, including respirator malfunction.

q How to inspect, put on, remove, use and check the seals of the respirator.

q Maintenance and storage procedures.

q The general requirements of the Respiratory Protection standard.

q How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent effective use of the respirator.

√ Check that your facility satisfies the general requirements of the respirator standard by providingthe following:

q Training that is understandable to employees.

q Training prior to employee use of a respirator.

q Retraining as specified below:

• Annually.

• Upon changes in workplace conditions that affect respirator use.

• When knowledge and skills for respirator useare not retained by the employee.

• Whenever retraining appears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

q Appendix D of the standard to voluntary users.


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• Are you confident that you are using your respiratorcorrectly?

• Are you confident that your respirator is performingadequately?

How long do I need to retain fit test records?

Fit test records must be retained for respirator usersuntil the next fit test is administered.

Do I need to retain records of fit tests for employeeswho are no longer using respirators?

No, fit test records do not need to be retained for theseemployees.

(m)(3) Written respiratory protection program

You must retain a written copy of your current respiratory protection program.

(m)(4) Access to records

Written materials required to be retained must be madeavailable upon request to the affected employees, theirdesignated representatives (29 CFR 1910.1020), and toOSHA. (See also 29 CFR 1910.1020 at: http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=10027.)

Do I need to allow employees and OSHA to makecopies of these materials?

Yes, you need to make these materials available for inspection and for copying.

Must employees be allowed access to the records ofother employees?

No, each affected employe can have access to his or herrecords only.

CHECKLIST FOR PROGRAM EVALUATION

√ Check that your facility:

q Conducts workplace evaluations as necessary to ensure that the written respiratory protection program is being effectively implemented.

q Regularly consults with employees required to wear respirators to assess their views on the respiratory protection program and to identify problems with respirator fit, selection, use and maintenance.

q Corrects any problems identified during assess-ments.

Section (m): RecordkeepingYou must retain certain records to:

• assist you in auditing the adequacy of your respira-tory protection program

• facilitate employee involvement

• allow OSHA to inspect your records and make compliance determinations

(m)(1) Medical evaluation records

Records of medical evaluations required by paragraph(e) of the standard must be retained and made availableto the employees in accord with OSHA’s Access to Employee Exposure and Medical Records standard (29 CFR 1910.1020).

(m)(2) Respirator fit testing records

You are required to retain written records of the qualitative and quantitative fit tests administered toyour employees. These records need to include:

• The name or identification of the worker tested.

• The type of fit test performed.

• The make, model and size of the respirator tested.

• The date of the fit test.

• Pass/fail results if a qualitative fit test (QLFT) is used,or the fit factor and strip chart recording or otherrecord of the test results if a quantitative fit test(QNFT) is used.

CHECKLIST FOR RECORDKEEPING

√ Check that your facility does the following:

q Retains records of medical evaluations.

q Retains fit testing records.

q Retains a copy of the current respiratory protection program.

q Provides access to the above records by affected employees and OSHA.

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Attachment 1: APF Glossary and definitionsThe preamble to the final rule for Assigned ProtectionFactors (APF) includes a glossary (see 71 FR 50122; August 24, 2006) that provides an auxiliary list of termsused in the APF rulemaking and throughout the pream-ble to the APF final rule. In the glossary portion, there isboth a list of acronyms used in the APF rule and a list ofdefinitions, in addition to the definitions in the APF rule-making for Assigned Protection Factor and MaximumUse Concentration (MUC). The glossary containsacronyms and terms from the final Respiratory Protec-tion standard (29 CFR 1910.134) each of which is printedin brown italics and is highlighted with an asterisk (*).The purpose of this glossary in this Small Entity Com-pliance Guide, is to provide those same acronyms andterms from the final Respiratory Protection standard,and to provide the new definitions for APFs and MUCsfrom the APF rulemaking in one place for ease of review. A copy of the Respiratory Protection standard isprovided in Attachment 3. (See 71 FR 50122, August 24, 2006, for a copy of the APF standard.)

This glossary specifies the terms represented byacronyms and provides definitions of other terms usedfrequently in the preamble to the final rule. This glos-sary does not change the legal requirements in thisfinal rule, nor is it intended to impose new regulatoryrequirements on the regulated community.

Acronyms

ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists

AIHA American Industrial Hygiene Association

ANSI American National Standards Institute

APF Assigned Protection Factor (see definition)

APR Air-purifying respirator (see definition)

Ci Concentration measured inside the respirator facepiece

Co Concentration measured outside the respirator

DFM Dust, fume, and mist filter

DOP Dioctylphthalate (see definition)

EPF Effective Protection Factor (see definition below under “Protection factor study”)

HEPA High efficiency particulate air filter (see definition)

IDLH Immediately dangerous to life or health(see definition)

LANL Los Alamos National Laboratory

LASL Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory

LLNL Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

MSHA Mine Safety and Health Administration

MUC Maximum Use Concentration (see definition)

NFPA National Fire Protection Association

NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

NRC Nuclear Regulatory Commission

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

OSH Act The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C. 655, 657, 665).

PAPR Powered air-purifying respirator (see definition)

PEL Permissible Exposure Limit (see definition)

PPF Program Protection Factor (see definition below under “Protection factor study”)

QLFT Qualitative fit test (see definition)

QNFT Quantitative fit test (see definition)

RDL Respirator Decision Logic (see definition)

REL Recommended Exposure Limit (see definition)

SAR Supplied-air (or airline) respirator (see definition)

SCBA Self-contained breathing apparatus (see definition)

SWPF Simulated Workplace Protection Factor (see definition below under “Protection factor study”)

TLV Threshold Limit Value (see definition)

WPF Workplace Protection Factor (see definition below under “Protection factor study”)

Definitions

Terms preceded by an asterisk (*) refer to definitionsthat can be found in paragraph (b) (“Definitions”) ofOSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR1910.134).

*Air-purifying respirator: A respirator with an air-purify-ing filter, cartridge, or canister that removes specific aircontaminants by passing ambient air through the air-purifying element.

*Assigned protection factor (APF): means the workplacelevel of respiratory protection that a respirator or classof respirators is expected to provide to employees whenthe employer implements a continuing, effective respi-ratory protection program as specified by this section.


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*Atmosphere-supplying respirator: A respirator thatsupplies the respirator user with breathing air from asource independent of the ambient atmosphere, and includes SARs and SCBA units.

*Canister or cartridge: A container with a filter, sorbent,or catalyst, or combination of these items, which removes specific contaminants from the air passedthrough the container.

Continuous flow respirator: An atmosphere-supplyingrespirator that provides a continuous flow of breathableair to the respirator facepiece.

*Demand respirator: An atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathing air to the facepieceonly when a negative pressure is created inside thefacepiece by inhalation.

Dioctylphthalate (DOP): An aerosolized agent used forquantitative fit testing.

Elastomeric: A respirator facepiece made of a naturalor synthetic elastic material such as natural rubber, silicone, or synthetic rubber.

*Emergency situation: Any occurrence such as, but notlimited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, orfailure of control equipment that may or does result inan uncontrolled significant release of an airborne contaminant.

*Employee exposure: Exposure to a concentration of an airborne contaminant that would occur if the employee were not using respiratory protection.

*End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI): A system thatwarns the respirator user of the approach of the end ofadequate respiratory protection, for example, that thesorbent is approaching saturation or is no longer effective.

*Escape-only respirator: A respirator intended to beused only for emergency exit.

*Filter or air-purifying element: A component used inrespirators to remove solid or liquid aerosols from theinspired air.

*Filtering facepiece (or dust mask): A negative pressure particulate respirator with a filter as an integralpart of the facepiece or with the entire facepiece composed of the filtering medium.

*Fit factor: A quantitative estimate of the fit of a particularrespirator to a specific individual, and typically estimatesthe ratio of the concentration of a substance in ambientair to its concentration inside the respirator when worn.

*Fit test: The use of a protocol to qualitatively or quan-titatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual.

*Helmet: A rigid respiratory inlet covering that also pro-vides head protection against impact and penetration.

*High-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA): A filter thatis at least 99.97% efficient in removing monodispersedparticles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter. The equivalentNIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate filters are the N100, R100,and P100 filters.

*Hood: A respiratory inlet covering that completelycovers the head and neck and may also cover portionsof the shoulders and torso.

*Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH): An atmosphere that poses an immediate threat to life,would cause irreversible adverse health effects, orwould impair an individual’s ability to escape from adangerous atmosphere.

*Interior structural firefighting: The physical activity offire suppression, rescue or both, inside of buildings orenclosed structures which are involved in a fire situa-tion beyond the incipient stage. (See 29 CFR 1910.155).

*Loose-fitting facepiece: A respiratory inlet coveringthat is designed to form a partial seal with the face.

*Maximum use concentration (MUC): The maximumatmospheric concentration of a hazardous substancefrom which an employee can be expected to be protected when wearing a respirator, and is determinedby the assigned protection factor of the respirator orclass of respirators and the exposure limit of the hazardous substance. The MUC can be determinedmathematically by multiplying the assigned protectionfactor specified for a respirator by the required OSHApermissible exposure limit, short-term exposure limit,or ceiling limit. When no OSHA exposure limit is available for a hazardous substance, an employer mustdetermine an MUC on the basis of relevant available information and informed professional judgment.

*Negative pressure respirator (tight-fitting): A respirator in which the air pressure inside the facepieceis negative during inhalation with respect to the ambient air pressure outside the respirator.

*Oxygen deficient atmosphere: An atmosphere with anoxygen content below 19.5% by volume.

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL): An occupational exposure limit specified by OSHA.

*Physician or other licensed healthcare professional(PLHCP): An individual whose legally permitted scopeof practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows him or her to independently provide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide, some or all ofthe healthcare services required by paragraph (e) of this section.

*Positive pressure respirator: A respirator in which thepressure inside the respiratory inlet covering exceedsthe ambient air pressure outside the respirator.

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*Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR): An air-purify-ing respirator that uses a blower to force the ambientair through air-purifying elements to the inlet covering.

*Pressure demand respirator: A positive pressure atmosphere-supplying respirator that admits breathingair to the facepiece when the positive pressure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.

Protection factor study: A study that determines theprotection provided by a respirator during use. This determination generally is accomplished by measuringthe ratio of the concentration of an airborne contami-nant (e.g., hazardous substance) outside the respirator(Co) to the concentration inside the respirator (Ci) (i.e.,Co/Ci). Therefore, as the ratio between Co and Ci increases, the protection factor increases, indicating an increase in the level of protection provided to employees by the respirator. Four types of protectionfactor studies are:

Effective Protection Factor (EPF) study - a study, conducted in the workplace, that measures the protection provided by a properly selected, fit-tested,and functioning respirator when used intermittentlyfor only some fraction of the total workplace expo-sure time (i.e., sampling is conducted during periodswhen respirators are worn and not worn). EPFs arenot directly comparable to Workplace Protection Fac-tor (WPF) values because the determinations includeboth the time spent in contaminated atmosphereswith and without respiratory protection; therefore,EPFs usually underestimate the protection affordedby a respirator that is used continuously in the work-place.

Program Protection Factor (PPF) study - a study thatestimates the protection provided by a respiratorwithin a specific respirator program. Like the EPF, it is focused not only on the respirator’s performance,but also the effectiveness of the complete respiratorprogram. PPFs are affected by all factors of the program, including respirator selection and mainte-nance, user training and motivation, work activitiesand program administration.

Workplace Protection Factor (WPF) study - a study,conducted under actual conditions of use in theworkplace, that measures the protection provided bya properly selected, fit-tested, and functioning respi-rator, when the respirator is worn correctly and usedas part of a comprehensive respirator program that isin compliance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protectionstandard at 29 CFR 1910.134. Measurements of Coand Ci are obtained only while the respirator is being

worn during performance of normal work tasks (i.e.,samples are not collected when the respirator is notbeing worn). As the degree of protection afforded bythe respirator increases, the WPF increases.

Simulated Workplace Protection Factor (SWPF) study- a study, conducted in a controlled laboratory settingand in which Co and Ci sampling is performed whilethe respirator user performs a series of set exercises.The laboratory setting is used to control many of thevariables found in workplace studies, while the exer-cises simulate the work activities of respirator users.This type of study is designed to determine the optimum performance of respirators by reducing theimpact of sources of variability through maintenanceof tightly controlled study conditions.

*Qualitative fit test (QLFT): A pass/fail fit test to assess the adequacy of respirator fit that relies on theindividual’s response to the test agent.

*Quantitative fit test (QNFT): An assessment of the adequacy of respirator fit by numerically measuring theamount of leakage into the respirator.

Recommended Exposure Limit (REL): An occupationalexposure level recommended by NIOSH.

Respirator Decision Logic (RDL): Respirator selectionguidance developed by NIOSH that contains a set ofrespirator protection factors.

*Respiratory inlet covering: That portion of a respiratorthat forms the protective barrier between the user’s respiratory tract and an air-purifying device or breath-ing air source, or both. It may be a facepiece, helmet,hood, suit, or a mouthpiece respirator with nose clamp.

*Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA): An at-mosphere-supplying respirator for which the breathingair source is designed to be carried by the user.

*Supplied-air respirator (or airline) respirator (SAR): Anatmosphere-supplying respirator for which the sourceof breathing air is not designed to be carried by theuser.

Threshold Limit Value (TLV): An occupational exposurelevel recommended by ACGIH.

*Tight-fitting facepiece: A respiratory inlet coveringthat forms a complete seal with the face.

*User seal check: An action conducted by the respirator user to determine if the respirator is properlyseated to the face.


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Attachment 2: Checklists

CHECKLIST FOR PERMISSIBLE PRACTICE

√ Check all that apply:

Hazard Determination

Is there a hazardous atmosphere in your workplace,which has (check all that apply):

q Insufficient oxygen

q Harmful levels of chemical, biological, or radiological contaminants

q Known and reasonably foreseeable emergencies related to...

q Unknown exposure levels or exposures to substances without an OSHA PEL

If you did not check any of the boxes above, the Respiratory Protection standard does not apply toyour workplace.

If you checked any of the boxes above, the Respira-tory Protection standard may apply to your work-place.

OSHA requires use of the following methods to con-trol the hazardous atmosphere(s) in your workplace:

q Engineering controls, such as ventilation, isolationor enclosure of the work process, or substitution ofnon-hazardous materials for the materials that poserespiratory hazards; and

q Administrative controls, such as worker rotation,or scheduling major maintenance for weekends ortimes when few workers are present.

When engineering controls are not feasible, or while engineering controls are being installed ormaintained, or whenever there is an emergency, appropriate respirators must be used.

Does your workplace have (check the box to indicateyes, and check all that apply):

q Sufficient engineering controls to prevent illnessor diseases caused by breathing hazardous air in theworkplace

q Sufficient administrative controls to prevent illness

If you did not check both of the boxes above, the Respiratory Protection standard does apply toyour workplace, and you must develop a written respiratory protection program that is specific to your workplace.

CHECKLIST FOR RESPIRATORY PROTECTIONPROGRAMS

√ Does your program contain written procedures for(check all that apply):

q Your specific workplace

q Selecting respirators

q Medical evaluations of employees required to wear respirators

q Fit testing

q Routine and emergency respirator use

q Schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding, and maintaining respirators

q Ensuring adequate air quality for supplied-air respirators

q Training in respiratory hazards

q Training in proper use and maintenance of respirators

q Program evaluation

q Ensuring that employees who voluntarily wear respirators (excluding filtering facepieces) comply with the medical evaluation and cleaning, storing and maintenance requirements of the standard

q A designated program administrator who is qualified to administer the program

q Updating the written program as necessary to account for changes in the workplace affecting respirator use

q Providing equipment, training and medical evaluations at no cost to employees

If you did not check all of the boxes above, your respiratory protection program does not meet OSHAstandards.

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CHECKLIST FOR RESPIRATOR SELECTION√ Check that the following has been done at your facility:

q Respiratory hazards in your workplace have been identified and evaluated.

q Employee exposures that have not been, or cannot be, evaluated must be considered IDLH.

q Respirators are NIOSH-certified, and used under the conditions of certification.

q Respirators are selected based on the workplace hazards evaluated and workplace and user factors affecting respirator performance and reliability.

q Respirators are selected based on the APFs and calculated MUCs.

q A sufficient number of respirator sizes and modelsare provided for selection purposes.

For IDLH atmospheres:

q Full facepiece pressure demand SARs with auxiliary SCBA unit or full facepiece pressure demand SCBAs, with a minimum service life of 30 minutes, are provided.

q Respirators used for escape only are NIOSH-certified for the atmosphere in which they will be used.

q Oxygen deficient atmospheres must be considered IDLH (d)(2)(B)(iii).

For Non-IDLH atmospheres:

q Respirators selected are appropriate for the APFs and MUCs.

q Respirators selected are appropriate for the chemical nature and physical form of the contaminant.

q Air-purifying respirators used for protection against gases and vapors are equipped with ESLIs or a change schedule has been implemented.

q Air-purifying respirators used for protection against particulates are equipped with NIOSH-certified HEPA filters or other filters certified by NIOSH for particulates under 42 CFR part 84.

CHECKLIST FOR MEDICAL EVALUATION

√ Check that the following has been done at your facility:q All employees have been evaluated to determine

their ability to wear a respirator prior to being fit tested for or wearing a respirator for the first time in your workplace.

q A physician or other licensed healthcare profes-sional (PLHCP) has been identified to perform the medical evaluations.

q The medical evaluations obtain the information requested in Sections 1 and 2, Part A of Appendix C of the standard, 29 CFR 1910.134. (See Attachment 3)

q Employees are provided follow-up medical exams if they answer positively to any of questions 1 through 8 in Section 2, Part A of Appendix C of thestandard, or if their medical examination reveals that a follow-up exam is needed.

q Medical evaluations are administered confiden-tially during normal work hours, and in a manner that is understandable to employees.

q Employees are provided the opportunity to discuss the medical evaluation results with the PLHCP.

q The following supplemental information is provided to the PLHCP before he or she makes a decision about respirator use:• Type and weight of the respirator.• Duration and frequency of respirator use.• Expected physical work effort.• Additional protective clothing to be worn.• Potential temperature and humidity extremes.• Written copies of the respiratory protection

program and the Respiratory Protection standard are provided to the PLHCP.

q Written recommendations are obtained from the PLHCP regarding each employee’s ability to wear a respirator, and that the PLHCP has given the worker a copy of these recommendations.

q Employees who are medically unable to wear a negative pressure respirator are provided with a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) if they are found by the PLHCP to be medically able to use a PAPR. (29 CFR 1910.1034(e)(6)(ii).)

Employees are given additional medical evaluationswhen:q The employee reports symptoms related to his or

her ability to use a respirator.q The PLHCP, respiratory protection program

administrator, or supervisor determines that a medical reevaluation is necessary.

q Information from the respiratory protection program suggests a need for reevaluation.

q Workplace conditions have changed in a way that could potentially place an increased physiological burden on the employee.


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CHECKLIST FOR FIT TESTING

√ Check all the fit tests listed below that are used atyour facility:

q Employees who are using tight-fitting respirator facepieces have passed an appropriate fit test prior to being required to use a respirator.

q Fit testing is conducted with the same make, model, style and size that the employee will be expected to use at the worksite.

q Fit tests are conducted annually and when different respirator facepieces are to be used.

q Provisions are made to conduct additional fit tests in the event of physical changes in the employee that may affect respirator fit.

q Employees are given the opportunity to select a different respirator facepiece, and be retested if their respirator fit is unacceptable to them.

q Fit tests are administered using OSHA-accepted QNFT or QLFT protocols.

q QLFT is only used to fit test either PAPRs, SCBAs, or negative pressure APRs that must achieve a fit factor of 100 or less.

q QNFT is used in all situations where a negative pressure respirator is intended to protect workers from contaminant concentrations greater than 10 times the PEL.

q When QNFT is used to fit negative pressure respirators, a minimum fit factor of 100 is achieved for tight-fitting half facepieces and 500 for full facepieces.

For tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying respiratorsand powered air-purifying respirators:

q Fit tests are conducted in the negative pressure mode.

q QLFT is achieved by temporarily converting the facepiece into a negative pressure respirator with appropriate filters, or by using an identical negative pressure APR.

q QNFT is achieved by modifying the facepiece to allow for sampling inside the mask midway between the nose and mouth. If the facepiece is permanently converted during fit testing, the respirator is no longer approved for workplace use.

CHECKLIST FOR PROPER USE OF RESPIRATORS

√ Check your facility to be certain that:

q Employees using tight-fitting respirators have no conditions, such as facial hair, that would interfere with a face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.

q Employees wear corrective glasses, goggles, or other protective equipment in a manner that does not interfere with the face-to-facepiece seal or valve function.

q Employees perform user seal checks prior to each use of a tight-fitting respirator.

q There are procedures for conducting ongoing surveillance of the work area for conditions that affect respirator effectiveness, and that, when such conditions exist, you take steps to address those situations.

q Employees are permitted to leave their work area to conduct respirator maintenance, such as washing the facepiece, or to replace respirator parts.

q Employees do not return to their work area until their respirator has been repaired or replaced in the event of a breakthrough, a leak in the face-piece, or a change in breathing resistance.

q There are procedures for respirator use in IDLH atmospheres and during interior structural firefighting to ensure that: the appropriate numberof standby personnel are deployed; standby personnel and workers in the IDLH environ-ment maintain communication; standby personnelare properly trained, equipped, and prepared; you will be notified when standby personnel enter an IDLH atmosphere; and you will respond appropri-ately to this notification.

q Standby personnel are equipped with a pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBA, or a positive pressure supplied-air respirator with an escape SCBA, and appropriate retrieval equipmentor other means for rescue.

q Procedures for interior structural firefighting require that: at least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphere and remain in contact with one another at all times; at least two standby person-nel are used; and all firefighting employees use SCBAs.

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CHECKLIST FOR RESPIRATOR MAINTENANCEAND CARE

√ Check to make sure that your facility has met thefollowing requirements:

Cleaning and disinfecting:

q Respirators are provided that are clean, sanitary, and in good working order.

q Respirators are cleaned and disinfected using the procedures specified in Appendix B-2 of the standard.

Respirators are cleaned and disinfected:

q As often as necessary when issued for the exclusive use of one employee.

q Before being worn by different individuals.

q After each use for emergency use respirators.

q After each use for respirators used for fit testing and training.

Storage:

q Respirators are stored to protect them from damage from the elements, and from becoming deformed.

Emergency respirators are stored:

q To be accessible to the work area.

q In compartments marked as such.

q In accord with manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspections:

q Routine-use respirators are inspected before each use and during cleaning.

q SCBAs and emergency respirators are inspected monthly and checked for proper functioning before and after each use.

q Emergency escape-only respirators are inspected before being carried into the workplace for use.

Inspections include:

q Check of respirator function.

q Tightness of connections.

q Condition of the facepiece, head straps, valves, cartridges, and other parts.

q Condition of elastomeric parts.

For SCBAs, inspections include:

q Check that cylinders are fully charged.

q Check that regulators function properly.

q Check that warning devices function properly.

For emergency use respirators, inspections include:

q Certification by documenting the inspection, and by tagging the information either to the respirator or its compartment, or storing it with inspection reports.

Repairs:

q Respirators that have failed inspection are taken out of service.

q Repairs are made only by trained personnel.

q Only NIOSH-certified parts are used.

q Reducing and admission valves, regulators and alarms are adjusted or repaired only by the manufacturer or a technician trained by the manufacturer.


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CHECKLIST FOR BREATHING AIR QUALITY AND USE

√ Check that at your facility:

General

q Compressed breathing air meets the requirementsfor Grade D breathing air.

q Compressed oxygen is not used in respirators thathave previously used compressed air.

q Oxygen concentrations greater than 23.5 percent are used only in equipment designed for oxygen service or distribution.

q Breathing air couplings are incompatible with outlets for other gas systems.

q Breathing gas containers are marked in accord with the NIOSH certification standard.

q Carbon monoxide levels are monitored for both oil and gas compressors.

Breathing Air Cylinders

q Cylinders are tested and maintained according to DOT 49 CFR Parts 173 and 178.

q A certificate of analysis for breathing air has been obtained from the supplier.

q Moisture content in the cylinder does not exceed a dew point of -50°F at 1 atmosphere pressure.

Compressors

q Are constructed and situated to prevent contami-nated air from getting into the system.

q Are set up to minimize the moisture content.

q Are equipped with in-line air-purifying sorbent beds and filters that are maintained or replaced following manufacturer’s instructions.

q Are tagged with information on the most recent change date of the filter and an authorizing signature.

q Carbon monoxide does not exceed 10 ppm in the breathing air from compressors that are not oil-lubricated.

q High-temperature or carbon monoxide alarms are used on oil-lubricated compressors; monitor the air often enough to ensure that carbon monoxide does not exceed 10 ppm if only a high-tempera-ture alarm is used.

CHECKLIST FOR TRAINING AND INFORMATION

√ Check that your facility provides the following:

Demonstration of employees’ knowledge of:

q Why the respirator is necessary and the conse-quences of improper fit, use, or maintenance.

q The limitations and capabilities of the respirator.

q How to effectively use the respirator in emergencysituations, including respirator malfunction.

q How to inspect, put on, remove, use and check the seals of the respirator.

q Maintenance and storage procedures.

q The general requirements of the Respiratory Protection standard.

q How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent effective use of the respirator.

√ Check that your facility satisfies the general requirements of the respirator standard by providingthe following:

q Training that is understandable to employees.

q Training prior to employee use of a respirator.

q Retraining as specified below:

• Annually.

• Upon changes in workplace conditions that affect respirator use.

• When knowledge and skills for respirator useare not retained by the employee.

• Whenever retraining appears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

q Appendix D of the standard to voluntary users.

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CHECKLIST FOR PROGRAM EVALUATION

√ Check that your facility:

q Conducts workplace evaluations as necessary to ensure that the written respiratory protection program is being effectively implemented.

q Regularly consults with employees required to wear respirators to assess their views on the respiratory protection program and to identify problems with respirator fit, selection, use and maintenance.

q Corrects any problems identified during assess-ments.

CHECKLIST FOR RECORDKEEPING

√ Check that your facility does the following:

q Retains records of medical evaluations.

q Retains fit testing records.

q Retains a copy of the current respiratory protection program.

q Provides access to the above records by affected employees and OSHA.


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Attachment 3 Respiratory Protection Standard

This section applies to General Industry (part 1910),Shipyards (part 1915), Marine Terminals (part 1917),Longshoring (part 1918), and Construction (part1926).

1910.134(a)Permissible practice.

1910.134(a)(1)In the control of those occupational diseases causedby breathing air contaminated with harmful dusts,fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays, or vapors,the primary objective shall be to prevent atmos-pheric contamination. This shall be accomplished asfar as feasible by accepted engineering controlmeasures (for example, enclosure or confinement ofthe operation, general and local ventilation, and sub-stitution of less toxic materials). When effective engi-neering controls are not feasible, or while they arebeing instituted, appropriate respirators shall beused pursuant to this section.

1910.134(a)(2)Respirators shall be provided by the employer whensuch equipment is necessary to protect the health ofthe employee. The employer shall provide the respi-rators which are applicable and suitable for the pur-pose intended. The employer shall be responsible forthe establishment and maintenance of a respiratoryprotection program which shall include the require-ments outlined in paragraph (c) of this section.

1910.134(b)Definitions.The following definitions are important terms usedin the respiratory protection standard in this section.

Air-purifying respirator means a respirator with anair-purifying filter, cartridge, or canister that removesspecific air contaminants by passing ambient airthrough the air-purifying element.

Assigned protection factor (APF) means the work-place level of respiratory protection that a respiratoror class of respirators is expected to provide to em-ployees when the employer implements a continu-ing, effective respiratory protection program asspecified by this section.

Atmosphere-supplying respirator means a respiratorthat supplies the respirator user with breathing airfrom a source independent of the ambient atmos-phere, and includes supplied-air respirators (SARs)and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units.

Canister or cartridge means a container with a filter,sorbent, or catalyst, or combination of these items,which removes specific contaminants from the airpassed through the container.

Demand respirator means an atmosphere-supplyingrespirator that admits breathing air to the facepieceonly when a negative pressure is created inside thefacepiece by inhalation.

Emergency situation means any occurrence such as,but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of con-tainers, or failure of control equipment that may ordoes result in an uncontrolled significant release ofan airborne contaminant.

Employee exposure means exposure to a concentra-tion of an airborne contaminant that would occur ifthe employee were not using respiratory protection.

End-of-service-life indicator (ESLI) means a systemthat warns the respirator user of the approach of theend of adequate respiratory protection, for example,that the sorbent is approaching saturation or is nolonger effective.

Escape-only respirator means a respirator intendedto be used only for emergency exit.

Filter or air purifying element means a componentused in respirators to remove solid or liquid aerosolsfrom the inspired air.

Filtering facepiece (dust mask) means a negativepressure particulate respirator with a filter as an inte-gral part of the facepiece or with the entire facepiececomposed of the filtering medium.

Fit factor means a quantitative estimate of the fit of aparticular respirator to a specific individual, and typi-cally estimates the ratio of the concentration of asubstance in ambient air to its concentration insidethe respirator when worn.

Fit test means the use of a protocol to qualitativelyor quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on anindividual. (See also Qualitative fit test QLFT andQuantitative fit test QNFT.)

Helmet means a rigid respiratory inlet covering thatalso provides head protection against impact andpenetration.

High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter means afilter that is at least 99.97% efficient in removingmonodisperse particles of 0.3 micrometers in diame-ter. The equivalent NIOSH 42 CFR 84 particulate fil-ters are the N100, R100, and P100 filters.

Hood means a respiratory inlet covering that com-pletely covers the head and neck and may also coverportions of the shoulders and torso.

Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH)means an atmosphere that poses an immediatethreat to life, would cause irreversible adverse healtheffects, or would impair an individual’s ability to es-cape from a dangerous atmosphere.

Interior structural firefighting means the physicalactivity of fire suppression, rescue or both, inside ofbuildings or enclosed structures which are involvedin a fire situation beyond the incipient stage. (See 29CFR 1910.155)

Loose-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inletcovering that is designed to form a partial seal withthe face.

Maximum use concentration (MUC) means the max-imum atmospheric concentration of a hazardoussubstance from which an employee can be expectedto be protected when wearing a respirator, and is de-termined by the assigned protection factor of the res-pirator or class of respirators and the exposure limitof the hazardous substance. The MUC can be deter-mined mathematically by multiplying the assignedprotection factor specified for a respirator by the re-quired OSHA permissible exposure limit, short-termexposure limit, or ceiling limit. When no OSHA expo-sure limit is available for a hazardous substance, anemployer must determine an MUC on the basis ofrelevant available information and informed profes-sional judgment.

Negative pressure respirator (tight fitting) means arespirator in which the air pressure inside the face-piece is negative during inhalation with respect tothe ambient air pressure outside the respirator.

Oxygen deficient atmosphere means an atmospherewith an oxygen content below 19.5% by volume.

Physician or other licensed healthcare professional(PLHCP) means an individual whose legally permit-ted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, orcertification) allows him or her to independently pro-vide, or be delegated the responsibility to provide,

some or all of the healthcare services required byparagraph (e) of this section.

Positive pressure respirator means a respirator inwhich the pressure inside the respiratory inlet cover-ing exceeds the ambient air pressure outside the res-pirator.

Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) means anair-purifying respirator that uses a blower to forcethe ambient air through air-purifying elements to theinlet covering.

Pressure demand respirator means a positive pres-sure atmosphere-supplying respirator that admitsbreathing air to the facepiece when the positive pres-sure is reduced inside the facepiece by inhalation.

Qualitative fit test (QLFT) means a pass/fail fit test toassess the adequacy of respirator fit that relies onthe individual’s response to the test agent.

Quantitative fit test (QNFT) means an assessment ofthe adequacy of respirator fit by numerically measur-ing the amount of leakage into the respirator.

Respiratory inlet covering means that portion of arespirator that forms the protective barrier betweenthe user’s respiratory tract and an air-purifying de-vice or breathing air source, or both. It may be afacepiece, helmet, hood, suit, or a mouthpiece respi-rator with nose clamp.

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) meansan atmosphere-supplying respirator for which thebreathing air source is designed to be carried by theuser.

Service life means the period of time that a respira-tor, filter or sorbent, or other respiratory equipmentprovides adequate protection to the wearer.

Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or airline respiratormeans an atmosphere-supplying respirator forwhich the source of breathing air is not designed tobe carried by the user.

This section means this Respiratory Protection stan-dard.

Tight-fitting facepiece means a respiratory inlet cov-ering that forms a complete seal with the face.

User seal check means an action conducted by therespirator user to determine if the respirator is prop-erly seated to the face.

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1910.134(c)Respiratory protection program.This paragraph requires the employer to developand implement a written respiratory protection pro-gram with required worksite-specific procedures andelements for required respirator use. The programmust be administered by a suitably trained programadministrator. In addition, certain program elementsmay be required for voluntary use to prevent poten-tial hazards associated with the use of the respirator.

Note: The Small Entity Compliance Guidecontains criteria for the selection of a program administrator and a sample program that meetsthe requirements of this paragraph.

1910.134(c)(1)In any workplace where respirators are necessary toprotect the health of the employee or whenever res-pirators are required by the employer, the employershall establish and implement a written respiratoryprotection program with worksite-specific proce-dures. The program shall be updated as necessary toreflect those changes in workplace conditions that af-fect respirator use. The employer shall include in theprogram the following provisions of this section, asapplicable:

1910.134(c)(1)(i)Procedures for selecting respirators for use in theworkplace;

1910.134(c)(1)(ii)Medical evaluations of employees required to userespirators;

1910.134(c)(1)(iii)Fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators;

1910.134(c)(1)(iv)Procedures for proper use of respirators in routineand reasonably foreseeable emergency situations;

1910.134(c)(1)(v)Procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting,storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding, and other-wise maintaining respirators;

1910.134(c)(1)(vi)Procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity,and flow of breathing air for atmosphere-supplyingrespirators;

1910.134(c)(1)(vii)Training of employees in the respiratory hazards towhich they are potentially exposed during routineand emergency situations;

1910.134(c)(1)(viii)Training of employees in the proper use of respira-tors, including putting on and removing them, anylimitations on their use, and their maintenance; and

1910.134(c)(1)(ix)Procedures for regularly evaluating the effectivenessof the program.

1910.134(c)(2)Where respirator use is not required:

1910.134(c)(2)(i)An employer may provide respirators at the requestof employees or permit employees to use their ownrespirators, if the employer determines that such res-pirator use will not in itself create a hazard. If the em-ployer determines that any voluntary respirator useis permissible, the employer shall provide the respi-rator users with the information contained in Appen-dix D to this section (“Information for EmployeesUsing Respirators When Not Required Under theStandard”); and

1910.134(c)(2)(ii)In addition, the employer must establish and imple-ment those elements of a written respiratory protec-tion program necessary to ensure that any employeeusing a respirator voluntarily is medically able to usethat respirator, and that the respirator is cleaned,stored, and maintained so that its use does not pres-ent a health hazard to the user. Exception: Employersare not required to include in a written respiratoryprotection program those employees whose onlyuse of respirators involves the voluntary use of filter-ing facepieces (dust masks).

1910.134(c)(3)The employer shall designate a program administra-tor who is qualified by appropriate training or experi-ence that is commensurate with the complexity ofthe program to administer or oversee the respiratoryprotection program and conduct the required evalua-tions of program effectiveness.

1910.134(c)(4)The employer shall provide respirators, training, andmedical evaluations at no cost to the employee.


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1910.134(d)Selection of respirators.This paragraph requires the employer to evaluaterespiratory hazard(s) in the workplace, identify rele-vant workplace and user factors, and base respiratorselection on these factors. The paragraph also speci-fies appropriately protective respirators for use inIDLH atmospheres, and limits the selection and useof air-purifying respirators.

1910.134(d)(1General requirements.

1910.134(d)(1)(i)The employer shall select and provide an appropri-ate respirator based on the respiratory hazard(s) towhich the worker is exposed and workplace and userfactors that affect respirator performance and relia-bility.

1910.134(d)(1)(ii)The employer shall select a NIOSH-certified respira-tor. The respirator shall be used in compliance withthe conditions of its certification.

1910.134(d)(1)(iii)The employer shall identify and evaluate the respira-tory hazard(s) in the workplace; this evaluation shallinclude a reasonable estimate of employee expo-sures to respiratory hazard(s) and an identification ofthe contaminant’s chemical state and physical form.Where the employer cannot identify or reasonablyestimate the employee exposure, the employer shallconsider the atmosphere to be IDLH.

1910.134(d)(1)(iv)The employer shall select respirators from a suffi-cient number of respirator models and sizes so thatthe respirator is acceptable to, and correctly fits, theuser.

1910.134(d)(2)Respirators for IDLH atmospheres.

1910.134(d)(2)(i)The employer shall provide the following respiratorsfor employee use in IDLH atmospheres:

1910.134(d)(2)(i)(A)A full facepiece pressure demand SCBA certified byNIOSH for a minimum service life of thirty minutes,or

1910.134(d)(2)(i)(B)A combination full facepiece pressure demand sup-plied-air respirator (SAR) with auxiliary self-con-tained air supply.

1910.134(d)(2)(ii)Respirators provided only for escape from IDLH at-mospheres shall be NIOSH-certified for escape fromthe atmosphere in which they will be used.

1910.134(d)(2)(iii)All oxygen-deficient atmospheres shall be consid-ered IDLH. Exception: If the employer demonstratesthat, under all foreseeable conditions, the oxygenconcentration can be maintained within the rangesspecified in Table II of this section (i.e., for the alti-tudes set out in the table), then any atmosphere-sup-plying respirator may be used.

1910.134(d)(3)Respirators for atmospheres that are not IDLH.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)The employer shall provide a respirator that is ade-quate to protect the health of the employee and en-sure compliance with all other OSHA statutory andregulatory requirements, under routine and reason-ably foreseeable emergency situations.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(A)Assigned Protection Factors (APFs) Employers mustuse the assigned protection factors listed in Table I toselect a respirator that meets or exceeds the requiredlevel of employee protection. When using a combi-nation respirator (e.g., airline respirators with an air-purifying filter), employers must ensure that theassigned protection factor is appropriate to the modeof operation in which the respirator is being used.

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1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)Maximum Use Concentration (MUC)

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(1)The employer must select a respirator for employeeuse that maintains the employee’s exposure to thehazardous substance, when measured outside therespirator, at or below the MUC.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(2)Employers must not apply MUCs to conditions thatare immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH);instead, they must use respirators listed for IDLHconditions in paragraph (d)(2) of this standard.

1910.134(d)(3)(i)(B)(3)When the calculated MUC exceeds the IDLH level fora hazardous substance, or the performance limits ofthe cartridge or canister, then employers must setthe maximum MUC at that lower limit.

1910.134(d)(3)(ii)The respirator selected shall be appropriate for thechemical state and physical form of the contaminant.

1910.134(d)(3)(iii)For protection against gases and vapors, the em-ployer shall provide:

1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(A)An atmosphere-supplying respirator, or

1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)An air-purifying respirator, provided that:

1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)(1)The respirator is equipped with an end-of-service-lifeindicator (ESLI) certified by NIOSH for the contami-nant; or

1910.134(d)(3)(iii)(B)(2)If there is no ESLI appropriate for conditions in theemployer’s workplace, the employer implements achange schedule for canisters and cartridges that isbased on objective information or data that will en-sure that canisters and cartridges are changed beforethe end of their service life. The employer shall de-scribe in the respirator program the information anddata relied upon and the basis for the canister and

Table I: Assigned Protection Factors5

Type of Respirator1, 2 Quarter Half Full Helmet/Hood Loose-fittingmask mask facepiece facepiece

1. Air-Purifying Respirator 5 103 50 — —

2. Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) — 50 1,000 25/1,0004 25

3. Supplied-Air Respirator (SAR) or Airline Respirator• Demand mode — 10 50 — —• Continuous flow mode — 50 1,000 25/1,0004 25• Pressure-demand or other — 50 1,000 — —

positive-pressure mode

4. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) • Demand mode — 10 50 50 —• Pressure-demand or other positive- — — 10,000 10,000 —

pressure mode (e.g., open/closed circuit)

Notes:1 Employers may select respirators assigned for use in higher workplace concentrations of a hazardous substance for

use at lower concentrations of that substance, or when required respirator use is independent of concentration.2 The assigned protection factors in Table I are only effective when the employer implements a continuing, effective

respirator program as required by this section (29 CFR 1910.134), including training, fit testing, maintenance, and use requirements.

3 This APF category includes filtering facepieces, and half masks with elastomeric facepieces.4 The employer must have evidence provided by the respirator manufacturer that testing of these respirators demonstrates

performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater to receive an APF of 1,000. This level of performance can best bedemonstrated by performing a WPF or SWPF study or equivalent testing. Absent such testing, all other PAPRs and SARs with helmets/hoods are to be treated as loose-fitting facepiece respirators, and receive an APF of 25.

5 These APFs do not apply to respirators used solely for escape. For escape respirators used in association with specific substances covered by 29 CFR 1910 subpart Z, employers must refer to the appropriate substance-specific standards in that subpart. Escape respirators for other IDLH atmospheres are specified by 29 CFR 1910.134(d)(2)(ii).


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cartridge change schedule and the basis for relianceon the data.

1910.134(d)(3)(iv)For protection against particulates, the employershall provide:

1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(A)An atmosphere-supplying respirator; or

1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(B)An air-purifying respirator equipped with a filter cer-tified by NIOSH under 30 CFR part 11 as a high effi-ciency particulate air (HEPA) filter, or an air-purifyingrespirator equipped with a filter certified for particu-lates by NIOSH under 42 CFR part 84; or

1910.134(d)(3)(iv)(C)For contaminants consisting primarily of particleswith mass median aerodynamic diameters (MMAD)of at least 2 micrometers, an air-purifying respiratorequipped with any filter certified for particulates byNIOSH.

1910.134(e)Medical evaluation.Using a respirator may place a physiological burdenon employees that varies with the type of respiratorworn, the job and workplace conditions in which therespirator is used, and the medical status of the em-ployee. Accordingly, this paragraph specifies theminimum requirements for medical evaluation thatemployers must implement to determine the em-ployee’s ability to use a respirator.

1910.134(e)(1)General. The employer shall provide a medical eval-uation to determine the employee’s ability to use a

respirator, before the employee is fit tested or re-quired to use the respirator in the workplace. Theemployer may discontinue an employee’s medicalevaluations when the employee is no longer re-quired to use a respirator.

1910.134(e)(2)Medical evaluation procedures.

1910.134(e)(2)(i)The employer shall identify a physician or other li-censed health care professional (PLHCP) to performmedical evaluations using a medical questionnaireor an initial medical examination that obtains thesame information as the medical questionnaire.

1910.134(e)(2)(ii)The medical evaluation shall obtain the informationrequested by the questionnaire in Sections 1 and 2,Part A of Appendix C of this section.

1910.134(e)(3)Follow-up medical examination.

1910.134(e)(3)(i)The employer shall ensure that a follow-up medicalexamination is provided for an employee who givesa positive response to any question among ques-tions 1 through 8 in Section 2, Part A of Appendix Cor whose initial medical examination demonstratesthe need for a follow-up medical examination.

1910.134(e)(3)(ii)The follow-up medical examination shall include anymedical tests, consultations, or diagnostic proce-dures that the PLHCP deems necessary to make afinal determination.

1910.134(e)(4)Administration of the medical questionnaire and examinations.

1910.134(e)(4)(i)The medical questionnaire and examinations shallbe administered confidentially during the employee’snormal working hours or at a time and place conven-ient to the employee. The medical questionnaireshall be administered in a manner that ensures thatthe employee understands its content.

1910.134(e)(4)(ii)The employer shall provide the employee with anopportunity to discuss the questionnaire and exami-nation results with the PLHCP.

Table II: Oxygen Deficient Atmospheres

Altitude (ft.) Oxygen deficient atmospheres (% O2) for which the employer may rely on atmosphere- supplying respirators

Less than 3,001 16.0-19.53,001-4,000 16.4-19.54,001-5,000 17.1-19.55,001-6,000 17.8-19.56,001-7,000 18.5-19.57,001-8,0001 19.3-19.5

1 Above 8,000 feet the exception does not apply. Oxygen-enriched breathing air must be supplied above 14,000 feet.

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1910.134(e)(5)Supplemental information for the PLHCP.

1910.134(e)(5)(i)The following information must be provided to thePLHCP before the PLHCP makes a recommendationconcerning an employee’s ability to use a respirator:

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(A)(A) The type and weight of the respirator to be usedby the employee;

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(B)The duration and frequency of respirator use (includ-ing use for rescue and escape);

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(C)The expected physical work effort;

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(D)Additional protective clothing and equipment to beworn; and

1910.134(e)(5)(i)(E)Temperature and humidity extremes that may be en-countered.

1910.134(e)(5)(ii)Any supplemental information provided previouslyto the PLHCP regarding an employee need not beprovided for a subsequent medical evaluation if theinformation and the PLHCP remain the same.

1910.134(e)(5)(iii)The employer shall provide the PLHCP with a copy ofthe written respiratory protection program and acopy of this section.

Note to Paragraph (e)(5)(iii): When the employer re-places a PLHCP, the employer must ensure that thenew PLHCP obtains this information, either by pro-viding the documents directly to the PLHCP or hav-ing the documents transferred from the formerPLHCP to the new PLHCP. However, OSHA does notexpect employers to have employees medicallyreevaluated solely because a new PLHCP has beenselected.

1910.134(e)(6)Medical determination. In determining the em-ployee’s ability to use a respirator, the employershall:

1910.134(e)(6)(i)Obtain a written recommendation regarding the em-ployee’s ability to use the respirator from the PLHCP.

The recommendation shall provide only the follow-ing information:

1910.134(e)(6)(i)(A)Any limitations on respirator use related to the med-ical condition of the employee, or relating to theworkplace conditions in which the respirator will beused, including whether or not the employee is med-ically able to use the respirator;

1910.134(e)(6)(i)(B)The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations;and

1910.134(e)(6)(i)(C)A statement that the PLHCP has provided the em-ployee with a copy of the PLHCP’s written recom-mendation.

1910.134(e)(6)(ii)If the respirator is a negative pressure respirator andthe PLHCP finds a medical condition that may placethe employee’s health at increased risk if the respira-tor is used, the employer shall provide a PAPR if thePLHCP’s medical evaluation finds that the employeecan use such a respirator; if a subsequent medicalevaluation finds that the employee is medically ableto use a negative pressure respirator, then the em-ployer is no longer required to provide a PAPR.

1910.134(e)(7)Additional medical evaluations. At a minimum, theemployer shall provide additional medical evalua-tions that comply with the requirements of this sec-tion if:

1910.134(e)(7)(i)An employee reports medical signs or symptomsthat are related to ability to use a respirator;

1910.134(e)(7)(ii)A PLHCP, supervisor, or the respirator program ad-ministrator informs the employer that an employeeneeds to be reevaluated;

1910.134(e)(7)(iii)Information from the respiratory protection program,including observations made during fit testing andprogram evaluation, indicates a need for employeereevaluation; or

1910.134(e)(7)(iv)A change occurs in workplace conditions (e.g., physi-cal work effort, protective clothing, temperature) thatmay result in a substantial increase in the physiologi-cal burden placed on an employee.


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1910.134(f)Fit testing.This paragraph requires that, before an employeemay be required to use any respirator with a nega-tive or positive pressure tight-fitting facepiece, theemployee must be fit tested with the same make,model, style, and size of respirator that will be used.This paragraph specifies the kinds of fit tests al-lowed, the procedures for conducting them, and howthe results of the fit tests must be used.

1910.134(f)(1)The employer shall ensure that employees using atight-fitting facepiece respirator pass an appropriatequalitative fit test (QLFT) or quantitative fit test(QNFT) as stated in this paragraph.

1910.134(f)(2)The employer shall ensure that an employee using atight-fitting facepiece respirator is fit tested prior toinitial use of the respirator, whenever a different res-pirator facepiece (size, style, model or make) is used,and at least annually thereafter.

1910.134(f)(3)The employer shall conduct an additional fit testwhenever the employee reports, or the employer,PLHCP, supervisor, or program administrator makesvisual observations of, changes in the employee’sphysical condition that could affect respirator fit.Such conditions include, but are not limited to, facialscarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or an ob-vious change in body weight.

1910.134(f)(4)If after passing a QLFT or QNFT, the employee sub-sequently notifies the employer, program adminis-trator, supervisor, or PLHCP that the fit of therespirator is unacceptable, the employee shall begiven a reasonable opportunity to select a differentrespirator facepiece and to be retested.

1910.134(f)(5)The fit test shall be administered using an OSHA-ac-cepted QLFT or QNFT protocol. The OSHA-acceptedQLFT and QNFT protocols and procedures are con-tained in Appendix A of this section.

1910.134(f)(6)QLFT may only be used to fit test negative pressureair-purifying respirators that must achieve a fit factorof 100 or less.

1910.134(f)(7)If the fit factor, as determined through an OSHA-ac-cepted QNFT protocol, is equal to or greater than 100for tight-fitting half facepieces, or equal to or greater

than 500 for tight-fitting full facepieces, the QNFT hasbeen passed with that respirator.

1910.134(f)(8)Fit testing of tight-fitting atmosphere-supplying res-pirators and tight-fitting powered air-purifying respi-rators shall be accomplished by performingquantitative or qualitative fit testing in the negativepressure mode, regardless of the mode of operation(negative or positive pressure) that is used for respi-ratory protection.

1910.134(f)(8)(i)Qualitative fit testing of these respirators shall beaccomplished by temporarily converting the respi-rator user’s actual facepiece into a negative pres-sure respirator with appropriate filters, or by usingan identical negative pressure air-purifying respira-tor facepiece with the same sealing surfaces as a sur-rogate for the atmosphere-supplying or poweredair-purifying respirator facepiece.

1910.134(f)(8)(ii)Quantitative fit testing of these respirators shall beaccomplished by modifying the facepiece to allowsampling inside the facepiece in the breathing zoneof the user, midway between the nose and mouth.This requirement shall be accomplished by installinga permanent sampling probe onto a surrogate face-piece, or by using a sampling adapter designed totemporarily provide a means of sampling air from in-side the facepiece.

1910.134(f)(8)(iii)Any modifications to the respirator facepiece for fittesting shall be completely removed, and the face-piece restored to NIOSH-approved configuration, be-fore that facepiece can be used in the workplace.

1910.134(g)Use of respirators.This paragraph requires employers to establish andimplement procedures for the proper use of respira-tors. These requirements include prohibiting condi-tions that may result in facepiece seal leakage,preventing employees from removing respirators inhazardous environments, taking actions to ensurecontinued effective respirator operation throughoutthe work shift, and establishing procedures for theuse of respirators in IDLH atmospheres or in interiorstructural firefighting situations.

1910.134(g)(1)Facepiece seal protection.1910.134(g)(1)(i)The employer shall not permit respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by employees who have:

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1910.134(g)(1)(i)(A)Facial hair that comes between the sealing surface ofthe facepiece and the face or that interferes withvalve function; or

1910.134(g)(1)(i)(B)Any condition that interferes with the face-to-face-piece seal or valve function.

1910.134(g)(1)(ii)If an employee wears corrective glasses or gogglesor other personal protective equipment, the em-ployer shall ensure that such equipment is worn in amanner that does not interfere with the seal of thefacepiece to the face of the user.

1910.134(g)(1)(iii)For all tight-fitting respirators, the employer shall en-sure that employees perform a user seal check eachtime they put on the respirator using the proceduresin Appendix B-1 or procedures recommended by therespirator manufacturer that the employer demon-strates are as effective as those in Appendix B-1 ofthis section.

1910.134(g)(2)Continuing respirator effectiveness.1910.134(g)(2)(i)Appropriate surveillance shall be maintained of workarea conditions and degree of employee exposure orstress. When there is a change in work area condi-tions or degree of employee exposure or stress thatmay affect respirator effectiveness, the employershall reevaluate the continued effectiveness of therespirator.

1910.134(g)(2)(ii)The employer shall ensure that employees leave therespirator use area:

1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(A)To wash their faces and respirator facepieces as nec-essary to prevent eye or skin irritation associatedwith respirator use; or

1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(B)If they detect vapor or gas breakthrough, changes inbreathing resistance, or leakage of the facepiece; or

1910.134(g)(2)(ii)(C)To replace the respirator or the filter, cartridge, orcanister elements.

1910.134(g)(2)(iii)If the employee detects vapor or gas breakthrough,changes in breathing resistance, or leakage of thefacepiece, the employer must replace or repair the

respirator before allowing the employee to return tothe work area.

1910.134(g)(3)Procedures for IDLH atmospheres. For all IDLH at-mospheres, the employer shall ensure that:

1910.134(g)(3)(i)One employee or, when needed, more than one em-ployee is located outside the IDLH atmosphere;

1910.134(g)(3)(ii)Visual, voice, or signal line communication is main-tained between the employee(s) in the IDLH atmos-phere and the employee(s) located outside the IDLHatmosphere;

1910.134(g)(3)(iii)The employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmos-phere are trained and equipped to provide effectiveemergency rescue;

1910.134(g)(3)(iv)The employer or designee is notified before the em-ployee(s) located outside the IDLH atmosphere enterthe IDLH atmosphere to provide emergency rescue;

1910.134(g)(3)(v)The employer or designee authorized to do so by theemployer, once notified, provides necessary assis-tance appropriate to the situation;

1910.134(g)(3)(vi)Employee(s) located outside the IDLH atmospheresare equipped with:

1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(A)Pressure demand or other positive pressure SCBAs,or a pressure demand or other positive pressure sup-plied-air respirator with auxiliary SCBA; and either

1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(B)Appropriate retrieval equipment for removing theemployee(s) who enter(s) these hazardous atmos-pheres where retrieval equipment would contributeto the rescue of the employee(s) and would not in-crease the overall risk resulting from entry; or

1910.134(g)(3)(vi)(C)Equivalent means for rescue where retrieval equip-ment is not required under paragraph (g)(3)(vi)(B).

1910.134(g)(4)Procedures for interior structural firefighting. In addi-tion to the requirements set forth under paragraph(g)(3), in interior structural fires, the employer shallensure that:


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1910.134(g)(4)(i)At least two employees enter the IDLH atmosphereand remain in visual or voice contact with one an-other at all times;

1910.134(g)(4)(ii)At least two employees are located outside the IDLHatmosphere; and

1910.134(g)(4)(iii)All employees engaged in interior structural firefight-ing use SCBAs.

Note 1 to paragraph (g): One of the two individualslocated outside the IDLH atmosphere may be as-signed to an additional role, such as incident com-mander in charge of the emergency or safety officer,so long as this individual is able to perform assis-tance or rescue activities without jeopardizing thesafety or health of any firefighter working at the inci-dent.

Note 2 to paragraph (g): Nothing in this section ismeant to preclude firefighters from performingemergency rescue activities before an entire teamhas assembled.

1910.134(h)Maintenance and care of respirators.This paragraph requires the employer to provide forthe cleaning and disinfecting, storage, inspection,and repair of respirators used by employees.

1910.134(h)(1)Cleaning and disinfecting. The employer shall pro-vide each respirator user with a respirator that isclean, sanitary, and in good working order. The em-ployer shall ensure that respirators are cleaned anddisinfected using the procedures in Appendix B-2 ofthis section, or procedures recommended by the res-pirator manufacturer, provided that such proceduresare of equivalent effectiveness. The respirators shallbe cleaned and disinfected at the following intervals:

1910.134(h)(1)(i)Respirators issued for the exclusive use of an em-ployee shall be cleaned and disinfected as often asnecessary to be maintained in a sanitary condition;

1910.134(h)(1)(ii)Respirators issued to more than one employee shallbe cleaned and disinfected before being worn by dif-ferent individuals;

1910.134(h)(1)(iii)Respirators maintained for emergency use shall becleaned and disinfected after each use; and

1910.134(h)(1)(iv)Respirators used in fit testing and training shall becleaned and disinfected after each use.

1910.134(h)(2)Storage. The employer shall ensure that respiratorsare stored as follows:

1910.134(h)(2)(i)All respirators shall be stored to protect them fromdamage, contamination, dust, sunlight, extreme tem-peratures, excessive moisture, and damaging chemi-cals, and they shall be packed or stored to preventdeformation of the facepiece and exhalation valve.

1910.134(h)(2)(ii)In addition to the requirements of paragraph (h)(2)(i)of this section, emergency respirators shall be:

1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(A)Kept accessible to the work area;

1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(B)Stored in compartments or in covers that are clearlymarked as containing emergency respirators; and

1910.134(h)(2)(ii)(C)Stored in accordance with any applicable manufac-turer instructions.

1910.134(h)(3)Inspection.

1910.134(h)(3)(i)The employer shall ensure that respirators are in-spected as follows:

1910.134(h)(3)(i)(A)All respirators used in routine situations shall be in-spected before each use and during cleaning;

1910.134(h)(3)(i)(B)All respirators maintained for use in emergency situ-ations shall be inspected at least monthly and in ac-cordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations,and shall be checked for proper function before andafter each use; and

1910.134(h)(3)(i)(C)Emergency escape-only respirators shall be in-spected before being carried into the workplace foruse.

1910.134(h)(3)(ii)The employer shall ensure that respirator inspec-tions include the following:

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1910.134(h)(3)(ii)(A)A check of respirator function, tightness of connec-tions, and the condition of the various parts includ-ing, but not limited to, the facepiece, head straps,valves, connecting tube, and cartridges, canisters orfilters; and

1910.134(h)(3)(ii)(B)A check of elastomeric parts for pliability and signsof deterioration.

1910.134(h)(3)(iii)In addition to the requirements of paragraphs(h)(3)(i) and (ii) of this section, self-contained breath-ing apparatus shall be inspected monthly. Air andoxygen cylinders shall be maintained in a fullycharged state and shall be recharged when the pres-sure falls to 90% of the manufacturer’s recom-mended pressure level. The employer shalldetermine that the regulator and warning devicesfunction properly.

1910.134(h)(3)(iv)For respirators maintained for emergency use, theemployer shall:

1910.134(h)(3)(iv)(A)Certify the respirator by documenting the date the in-spection was performed, the name (or signature) ofthe person who made the inspection, the findings,required remedial action, and a serial number orother means of identifying the inspected respirator;and

1910.134(h)(3)(iv)(B)Provide this information on a tag or label that is at-tached to the storage compartment for the respirator,is kept with the respirator, or is included in inspec-tion reports stored as paper or electronic files. Thisinformation shall be maintained until replaced fol-lowing a subsequent certification.

1910.134(h)(4)Repairs. The employer shall ensure that respiratorsthat fail an inspection or are otherwise found to bedefective are removed from service, and are dis-carded or repaired or adjusted in accordance withthe following procedures:

1910.134(h)(4)(i)Repairs or adjustments to respirators are to be madeonly by persons appropriately trained to performsuch operations and shall use only the respiratormanufacturer’s NIOSH-approved parts designed forthe respirator;

1910.134(h)(4)(ii)Repairs shall be made according to the manufac-turer’s recommendations and specifications for thetype and extent of repairs to be performed; and

1910.134(h)(4)(iii)Reducing and admission valves, regulators, andalarms shall be adjusted or repaired only by themanufacturer or a technician trained by the manu-facturer.

1910.134(i)Breathing air quality and use.This paragraph requires the employer to provideemployees using atmosphere-supplying respirators(supplied-air and SCBA) with breathing gases of highpurity.

1910.134(i)(1)The employer shall ensure that compressed air, com-pressed oxygen, liquid air, and liquid oxygen usedfor respiration accords with the following specifica-tions:

1910.134(i)(1)(i)Compressed and liquid oxygen shall meet the UnitedStates Pharmacopoeia requirements for medical orbreathing oxygen; and

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)Compressed breathing air shall meet at least the re-quirements for Grade D breathing air described inANSI/Compressed Gas Association CommoditySpecification for Air, G-7.1-1989, to include:

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(A)Oxygen content (v/v) of 19.5-23.5%;

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(B)Hydrocarbon (condensed) content of 5 milligramsper cubic meter of air or less;

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(C)Carbon monoxide (CO) content of 10 ppm or less;

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(D)Carbon dioxide content of 1,000 ppm or less; and

1910.134(i)(1)(ii)(E)Lack of noticeable odor.

1910.134(i)(2)The employer shall ensure that compressed oxygenis not used in atmosphere-supplying respirators thathave previously used compressed air.


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1910.134(i)(3)The employer shall ensure that oxygen concentra-tions greater than 23.5% are used only in equipmentdesigned for oxygen service or distribution.

1910.134(i)(4)The employer shall ensure that cylinders used tosupply breathing air to respirators meet the follow-ing requirements:

1910.134(i)(4)(i)Cylinders are tested and maintained as prescribed inthe Shipping Container Specification Regulations ofthe Department of Transportation (49 CFR part 173and part 178);

1910.134(i)(4)(ii)Cylinders of purchased breathing air have a certifi-cate of analysis from the supplier that the breathingair meets the requirements for Grade D breathing air;and

1910.134(i)(4)(iii)The moisture content in the cylinder does not exceeda dew point of -50 deg.F (-45.6 deg.C) at 1 atmos-phere pressure.

1910.134(i)(5)The employer shall ensure that compressors used tosupply breathing air to respirators are constructedand situated so as to:

1910.134(i)(5)(i)Prevent entry of contaminated air into the air-supplysystem;

1910.134(i)(5)(ii)Minimize moisture content so that the dew point at 1atmosphere pressure is 10 degrees F (5.56 deg.C)below the ambient temperature;

1910.134(i)(5)(iii)Have suitable in-line air-purifying sorbent beds andfilters to further ensure breathing air quality. Sorbentbeds and filters shall be maintained and replaced orrefurbished periodically following the manufacturer’sinstructions.

1910.134(i)(5)(iv)Have a tag containing the most recent change dateand the signature of the person authorized by theemployer to perform the change. The tag shall bemaintained at the compressor.

1910.134(i)(6)For compressors that are not oil-lubricated, the em-

ployer shall ensure that carbon monoxide levels inthe breathing air do not exceed 10 ppm.

1910.134(i)(7)For oil-lubricated compressors, the employer shalluse a high-temperature or carbon monoxide alarm,or both, to monitor carbon monoxide levels. If onlyhigh-temperature alarms are used, the air supplyshall be monitored at intervals sufficient to preventcarbon monoxide in the breathing air from exceed-ing 10 ppm.

1910.134(i)(8)The employer shall ensure that breathing air cou-plings are incompatible with outlets for nonres-pirable worksite air or other gas systems. Noasphyxiating substance shall be introduced intobreathing air lines.

1910.134(i)(9)The employer shall use breathing gas containersmarked in accordance with the NIOSH respirator cer-tification standard, 42 CFR part 84.

1910.134(j)Identification of filters, cartridges, andcanisters. The employer shall ensure that all filters, cartridgesand canisters used in the workplace are labeled andcolor coded with the NIOSH approval label and thatthe label is not removed and remains legible.

1910.134(k)Training and information.This paragraph requires the employer to provide ef-fective training to employees who are required touse respirators. The training must be comprehen-sive, understandable, and recur annually, and moreoften if necessary. This paragraph also requires theemployer to provide the basic information on respi-rators in Appendix D of this section to employeeswho wear respirators when not required by this sec-tion or by the employer to do so.

1910.134(k)(1)The employer shall ensure that each employee candemonstrate knowledge of at least the following:

1910.134(k)(1)(i)Why the respirator is necessary and how improperfit, usage, or maintenance can compromise the pro-tective effect of the respirator;

1910.134(k)(1)(ii)What the limitations and capabilities of the respiratorare;

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1910.134(k)(1)(iii)How to use the respirator effectively in emergencysituations, including situations in which the respira-tor malfunctions;

1910.134(k)(1)(iv)How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and checkthe seals of the respirator;

1910.134(k)(1)(v)What the procedures are for maintenance and stor-age of the respirator;

1910.134(k)(1)(vi)How to recognize medical signs and symptoms thatmay limit or prevent the effective use of respirators;and

1910.134(k)(1)(vii)The general requirements of this section.

1910.134(k)(2)The training shall be conducted in a manner that isunderstandable to the employee.

1910.134(k)(3)The employer shall provide the training prior to re-quiring the employee to use a respirator in the work-place.

1910.134(k)(4)An employer who is able to demonstrate that a newemployee has received training within the last 12months that addresses the elements specified inparagraph (k)(1)(i) through (vii) is not required torepeat such training provided that, as required byparagraph (k)(1), the employee can demonstrateknowledge of those element(s). Previous training notrepeated initially by the employer must be providedno later than 12 months from the date of the previ-ous training.

1910.134(k)(5)Retraining shall be administered annually, and whenthe following situations occur:

1910.134(k)(5)(i)Changes in the workplace or the type of respiratorrender previous training obsolete;

1910.134(k)(5)(ii)Inadequacies in the employee’s knowledge or use ofthe respirator indicate that the employee has not re-tained the requisite understanding or skill; or

1910.134(k)(5)(iii)Any other situation arises in which retraining ap-pears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

1910.134(k)(6)The basic advisory information on respirators, aspresented in Appendix D of this section, shall be pro-vided by the employer in any written or oral format,to employees who wear respirators when such use isnot required by this section or by the employer.

1910.134(l)Program evaluation.This section requires the employer to conduct evalu-ations of the workplace to ensure that the writtenrespiratory protection program is being properly im-plemented, and to consult employees to ensure thatthey are using the respirators properly.

1910.134(l)(1)The employer shall conduct evaluations of the work-place as necessary to ensure that the provisions ofthe current written program are being effectively im-plemented and that it continues to be effective.

1910.134(l)(2)The employer shall regularly consult employees re-quired to use respirators to assess the employees’views on program effectiveness and to identify anyproblems. Any problems that are identified duringthis assessment shall be corrected. Factors to be as-sessed include, but are not limited to:

1910.134(l)(2)(i)Respirator fit (including the ability to use the respira-tor without interfering with effective workplace per-formance);

1910.134(l)(2)(ii)Appropriate respirator selection for the hazards towhich the employee is exposed;

1910.134(l)(2)(iii)Proper respirator use under the workplace conditionsthe employee encounters; and

1910.134(l)(2)(iv)Proper respirator maintenance.

1910.134(m)Recordkeeping.This section requires the employer to establish andretain written information regarding medical evalua-tions, fit testing, and the respirator program. This in-


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formation will facilitate employee involvement in therespirator program, assist the employer in auditingthe adequacy of the program, and provide a recordfor compliance determinations by OSHA.

1910.134(m)(1)Medical evaluation. Records of medical evaluationsrequired by this section must be retained and madeavailable in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1020.

1910.134(m)(2)Fit testing.

1910.134(m)(2)(i)The employer shall establish a record of the qualita-tive and quantitative fit tests administered to an em-ployee including:

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(A)The name or identification of the employee tested;

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(B)Type of fit test performed;

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(C)Specific make, model, style, and size of respiratortested;

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(D)Date of test; and

1910.134(m)(2)(i)(E)The pass/fail results for QLFTs or the fit factor andstrip chart recording or other recording of the test re-sults for QNFTs.

1910.134(m)(2)(ii)Fit test records shall be retained for respirator usersuntil the next fit test is administered.

1910.134(m)(3)A written copy of the current respirator programshall be retained by the employer.

1910.134(m)(4)Written materials required to be retained under thisparagraph shall be made available upon request toaffected employees and to the Assistant Secretary ordesignee for examination and copying.

1910.134(n)Effective date.Paragraphs (d)(3)(i)(A) and (d)(3)(i)(B) of this sectionbecome effective November 22, 2006.

1910.134(o)Appendices.

1910.134(o)(1)Compliance with Appendix A, Appendix B-1, Appen-dix B-2, and Appendix C of this section is mandatory.

1910.134(o)(2)Appendix D of this section is non-mandatory and isnot intended to create any additional obligations nototherwise imposed or to detract from any existingobligations.

[63 FR 1152, Jan. 8, 1998; 63 FR 20098, April 23, 1998;71 FR 16672, April 3, 2006; 71 FR 50187, August 24,2006]

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Appendix A to §1910.134: Fit Testing Procedures (Mandatory)

Part I. OSHA-Accepted Fit Test Protocols

A. Fit Testing Procedures -- General Requirements

The employer shall conduct fit testing using the fol-lowing procedures. The requirements in this appen-dix apply to all OSHA-accepted fit test methods, bothQLFT and QNFT.

1. The test subject shall be allowed to pick the mostacceptable respirator from a sufficient number ofrespirator models and sizes so that the respirator isacceptable to, and correctly fits, the user.

2. Prior to the selection process, the test subject shallbe shown how to put on a respirator, how it shouldbe positioned on the face, how to set strap tensionand how to determine an acceptable fit. A mirrorshall be available to assist the subject in evaluatingthe fit and positioning of the respirator. This instruc-tion may not constitute the subject’s formal trainingon respirator use, because it is only a review.

3. The test subject shall be informed that he/she isbeing asked to select the respirator that provides themost acceptable fit. Each respirator represents a dif-ferent size and shape, and if fitted and used properly,will provide adequate protection.

4. The test subject shall be instructed to hold eachchosen facepiece up to the face and eliminate thosethat obviously do not give an acceptable fit.

5. The more acceptable facepieces are noted in casethe one selected proves unacceptable; the mostcomfortable mask is donned and worn at least fiveminutes to assess comfort. Assistance in assessingcomfort can be given by discussing the points in thefollowing item A.6. If the test subject is not familiarwith using a particular respirator, the test subjectshall be directed to don the mask several times andto adjust the straps each time to become adept atsetting proper tension on the straps.

6. Assessment of comfort shall include a review ofthe following points with the test subject and allow-ing the test subject adequate time to determine thecomfort of the respirator:

(a) Position of the mask on the nose (b) Room for eye protection (c) Room to talk (d) Position of mask on face and cheeks

7. The following criteria shall be used to help deter-mine the adequacy of the respirator fit:

(a) Chin properly placed; (b) Adequate strap tension, not overly tightened; (c) Fit across nose bridge; (d) Respirator of proper size to span distance fromnose to chin; (e) Tendency of respirator to slip; (f) Self-observation in mirror to evaluate fit andrespirator position.

8. The test subject shall conduct a user seal check, ei-ther the negative and positive pressure seal checksdescribed in Appendix B-1 of this section or thoserecommended by the respirator manufacturer whichprovide equivalent protection to the procedures inAppendix B-1. Before conducting the negative andpositive pressure checks, the subject shall be told toseat the mask on the face by moving the head fromside-to-side and up and down slowly while taking ina few slow deep breaths. Another facepiece shall beselected and retested if the test subject fails the userseal check tests.

9. The test shall not be conducted if there is any hairgrowth between the skin and the facepiece sealingsurface, such as stubble beard growth, beard, mus-tache or sideburns which cross the respirator sealingsurface. Any type of apparel which interferes with asatisfactory fit shall be altered or removed.

10. If a test subject exhibits difficulty in breathingduring the tests, she or he shall be referred to aphysician or other licensed health care professional,as appropriate, to determine whether the test subjectcan wear a respirator while performing her or his du-ties.

11. If the employee finds the fit of the respirator un-acceptable, the test subject shall be given the oppor-tunity to select a different respirator and to beretested.

12. Exercise regimen. Prior to the commencement ofthe fit test, the test subject shall be given a descrip-tion of the fit test and the test subject’s responsibili-ties during the test procedure. The description of theprocess shall include a description of the test exer-cises that the subject will be performing. The respira-tor to be tested shall be worn for at least 5 minutesbefore the start of the fit test.

13. The fit test shall be performed while the test sub-ject is wearing any applicable safety equipment thatmay be worn during actual respirator use whichcould interfere with respirator fit.


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14. Test Exercises.(a) Employers must perform the following test ex-ercises for all fit testing methods prescribed in thisappendix, except for the CNP quantitative fit test-ing protocol and the CNP REDON quantitative fittesting protocol. For these two protocols, employ-ers must ensure that the test subjects (i.e., em-ployees) perform the exercise procedure specifiedin Part I.C.4(b) of this appendix for the CNP quanti-tative fit testing protocol, or the exercise proce-dure described in Part I.C.5(b) of this appendix forthe CNP REDON quantitative fit-testing protocol.For the remaining fit testing methods, employersmust ensure that employees perform the test exer-cises in the appropriate test environment in thefollowing manner:

(1) Normal breathing. In a normal standing posi-tion, without talking, the subject shall breathenormally.

(2) Deep breathing. In a normal standing posi-tion, the subject shall breathe slowly anddeeply, taking caution so as not to hyperventi-late.

(3) Turning head side to side. Standing in place,the subject shall slowly turn his/her head fromside to side between the extreme positions oneach side. The head shall be held at each ex-treme momentarily so the subject can inhale ateach side.

(4) Moving head up and down. Standing inplace, the subject shall slowly move his/herhead up and down. The subject shall be in-structed to inhale in the up position (i.e., whenlooking toward the ceiling).

(5) Talking. The subject shall talk out loud slowlyand loud enough so as to be heard clearly bythe test conductor. The subject can read from aprepared text such as the Rainbow Passage,count backward from 100, or recite a memorizedpoem or song.

Rainbow Passage

When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air,they act like a prism and form a rainbow. Therainbow is a division of white light into manybeautiful colors. These take the shape of a longround arch, with its path high above, and its twoends apparently beyond the horizon. There is,according to legend, a boiling pot of gold at oneend. People look, but no one ever finds it. Whena man looks for something beyond reach, his

friends say he is looking for the pot of gold atthe end of the rainbow.

(6) Grimace. The test subject shall grimace bysmiling or frowning. (This applies only to QNFTtesting; it is not performed for QLFT)

(7) Bending over. The test subject shall bend atthe waist as if he/she were to touch his/her toes.Jogging in place shall be substituted for this ex-ercise in those test environments such asshroud type QNFT or QLFT units that do not per-mit bending over at the waist.

(8) Normal breathing. Same as exercise (1).

(b) Each test exercise shall be performed for oneminute except for the grimace exercise which shallbe performed for 15 seconds. The test subjectshall be questioned by the test conductor regard-ing the comfort of the respirator upon completionof the protocol. If it has become unacceptable, an-other model of respirator shall be tried. The respi-rator shall not be adjusted once the fit testexercises begin. Any adjustment voids the test,and the fit test must be repeated.

B. Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT) Protocols

1. General(a) The employer shall ensure that persons admin-istering QLFT are able to prepare test solutions,calibrate equipment and perform tests properly,recognize invalid tests, and ensure that test equip-ment is in proper working order.

(b) The employer shall ensure that QLFT equip-ment is kept clean and well maintained so as tooperate within the parameters for which it was de-signed.

2. Isoamyl Acetate Protocol

Note: This protocol is not appropriate to use for thefit testing of particulate respirators. If used to fit testparticulate respirators, the respirator must beequipped with an organic vapor filter.

(a) Odor Threshold Screening

Odor threshold screening, performed withoutwearing a respirator, is intended to determine ifthe individual tested can detect the odor ofisoamyl acetate at low levels.

(1) Three 1 liter glass jars with metal lids arerequired.

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(2) Odor-free water (e.g., distilled or springwater) at approximately 25 deg. C (77 deg. F)shall be used for the solutions.

(3) The isoamyl acetate (IAA) (also known a3isopentyl acetate) stock solution is prepared byadding 1 ml of pure IAA to 800 ml of odor-freewater in a 1 liter jar, closing the lid and shakingfor 30 seconds. A new solution shall be pre-pared at least weekly.

(4) The screening test shall be conducted in aroom separate from the room used for actual fittesting. The two rooms shall be well-ventilatedto prevent the odor of IAA from becoming evi-dent in the general room air where testing takesplace.

(5) The odor test solution is prepared in a sec-ond jar by placing 0.4 ml of the stock solutioninto 500 ml of odor-free water using a cleandropper or pipette. The solution shall be shakenfor 30 seconds and allowed to stand for two tothree minutes so that the IAA concentrationabove the liquid may reach equilibrium. This so-lution shall be used for only one day.

(6) A test blank shall be prepared in a third jar byadding 500 cc of odor-free water.

(7) The odor test and test blank jar lids shall belabeled (e.g., 1 and 2) for jar identification. La-bels shall be placed on the lids so that they canbe peeled off periodically and switched to main-tain the integrity of the test.

(8) The following instruction shall be typed on acard and placed on the table in front of the twotest jars (i.e., 1 and 2): “The purpose of this testis to determine if you can smell banana oil at alow concentration. The two bottles in front ofyou contain water. One of these bottles alsocontains a small amount of banana oil. Be surethe covers are on tight, then shake each bottlefor two seconds. Unscrew the lid of each bottle,one at a time, and sniff at the mouth of the bot-tle. Indicate to the test conductor which bottlecontains banana oil.”

(9) The mixtures used in the IAA odor detectiontest shall be prepared in an area separate fromwhere the test is performed, in order to preventolfactory fatigue in the subject.

(10) If the test subject is unable to correctly iden-tify the jar containing the odor test solution, theIAA qualitative fit test shall not be performed.

(11) If the test subject correctly identifies the jarcontaining the odor test solution, the test sub-ject may proceed to respirator selection and fittesting.

(b) Isoamyl Acetate Fit Test

(1) The fit test chamber shall be a clear 55-gallondrum liner suspended inverted over a 2-foot di-ameter frame so that the top of the chamber isabout 6 inches above the test subject’s head. Ifno drum liner is available, a similar chambershall be constructed using plastic sheeting. Theinside top center of the chamber shall have asmall hook attached.

(2) Each respirator used for the fitting and fittesting shall be equipped with organic vaporcartridges or offer protection against organic va-pors.

(3) After selecting, donning, and properly adjust-ing a respirator, the test subject shall wear it tothe fit testing room. This room shall be separatefrom the room used for odor threshold screen-ing and respirator selection, and shall be well-ventilated, as by an exhaust fan or lab hood, toprevent general room contamination.

(4) A copy of the test exercises and any pre-pared text from which the subject is to readshall be taped to the inside of the test chamber.

(5) Upon entering the test chamber, the test sub-ject shall be given a 6-inch by 5-inch piece ofpaper towel, or other porous, absorbent, single-ply material, folded in half and wetted with 0.75ml of pure IAA. The test subject shall hang thewet towel on the hook at the top of the chamber.An IAA test swab or ampule may be substitutedfor the IAA wetted paper towel provided it hasbeen demonstrated that the alternative IAAsource will generate an IAA test atmospherewith a concentration equivalent to that gener-ated by the paper towel method.

(6) Allow two minutes for the IAA test concen-tration to stabilize before starting the fit test ex-ercises. This would be an appropriate time totalk with the test subject; to explain the fit test,the importance of his/her cooperation, and thepurpose for the test exercises; or to demon-strate some of the exercises.

(7) If at any time during the test, the subject de-tects the banana-like odor of IAA, the test isfailed. The subject shall quickly exit from the


8 3

test chamber and leave the test area to avoid ol-factory fatigue.

(8) If the test is failed, the subject shall return tothe selection room and remove the respirator.The test subject shall repeat the odor sensitivitytest, select and put on another respirator, returnto the test area and again begin the fit test pro-cedure described in (b) (1) through (7) above.The process continues until a respirator that fitswell has been found. Should the odor sensitivitytest be failed, the subject shall wait at least 5minutes before retesting. Odor sensitivity willusually have returned by this time.

(9) If the subject passes the test, the efficiency ofthe test procedure shall be demonstrated byhaving the subject break the respirator face sealand take a breath before exiting the chamber.

(10) When the test subject leaves the chamber,the subject shall remove the saturated toweland return it to the person conducting the test,so that there is no significant IAA concentrationbuildup in the chamber during subsequenttests. The used towels shall be kept in a self-sealing plastic bag to keep the test area frombeing contaminated.

3. Saccharin Solution Aerosol Protocol

The entire screening and testing procedure shall beexplained to the test subject prior to the conduct ofthe screening test.

(a) Taste threshold screening. The saccharin tastethreshold screening, performed without wearing arespirator, is intended to determine whether theindividual being tested can detect the taste of sac-charin.

(1) During threshold screening as well as duringfit testing, subjects shall wear an enclosureabout the head and shoulders that is approxi-mately 12 inches in diameter by 14 inches tallwith at least the front portion clear and that al-lows free movements of the head when a respi-rator is worn. An enclosure substantially similarto the 3M hood assembly, parts # FT 14 and # FT15 combined, is adequate.

(2) The test enclosure shall have a 3/4-inch (1.9cm) hole in front of the test subject’s nose andmouth area to accommodate the nebulizer nozzle.

(3) The test subject shall don the test enclosure.Throughout the threshold screening test, the

test subject shall breathe through his/herslightly open mouth with tongue extended. Thesubject is instructed to report when he/she de-tects a sweet taste.

(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Med-ication Nebulizer or equivalent, the test conduc-tor shall spray the threshold check solution intothe enclosure. The nozzle is directed away fromthe nose and mouth of the person. This nebu-lizer shall be clearly marked to distinguish itfrom the fit test solution nebulizer.

(5) The threshold check solution is prepared bydissolving 0.83 gram of sodium saccharin USPin 100 ml of warm water. It can be prepared byputting 1 ml of the fit test solution (see (b)(5)below) in 100 ml of distilled water.

(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb isfirmly squeezed so that it collapses completely,then released and allowed to fully expand.

(7) Ten squeezes are repeated rapidly and thenthe test subject is asked whether the saccharincan be tasted. If the test subject reports tastingthe sweet taste during the ten squeezes, thescreening test is completed. The taste thresholdis noted as ten regardless of the number ofsqueezes actually completed.

(8) If the first response is negative, ten moresqueezes are repeated rapidly and the test sub-ject is again asked whether the saccharin istasted. If the test subject reports tasting thesweet taste during the second ten squeezes, thescreening test is completed. The taste thresholdis noted as twenty regardless of the number ofsqueezes actually completed.

(9) If the second response is negative, ten moresqueezes are repeated rapidly and the test sub-ject is again asked whether the saccharin istasted. If the test subject reports tasting thesweet taste during the third set of ten squeezes,the screening test is completed. The tastethreshold is noted as thirty regardless of thenumber of squeezes actually completed.

(10) The test conductor will take note of thenumber of squeezes required to solicit a tasteresponse.

(11) If the saccharin is not tasted after 30squeezes (step 10), the test subject is unable totaste saccharin and may not perform the sac-charin fit test.

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Note to paragraph 3. (a): If the test subject eatsor drinks something sweet before the screeningtest, he/she may be unable to taste the weaksaccharin solution.

(12) If a taste response is elicited, the test sub-ject shall be asked to take note of the taste forreference in the fit test.

(13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that ap-proximately 1 ml of liquid is used at a time inthe nebulizer body.

(14) The nebulizer shall be thoroughly rinsed inwater, shaken dry, and refilled at least eachmorning and afternoon or at least every fourhours.

(b) Saccharin solution aerosol fit test procedure.

(1) The test subject may not eat, drink (exceptplain water), smoke, or chew gum for 15 min-utes before the test.

(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure de-scribed in 3. (a) above.

(3) The test subject shall don the enclosurewhile wearing the respirator selected in sectionI. A. of this appendix. The respirator shall beproperly adjusted and equipped with a particu-late filter(s).

(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 InhalationMedication Nebulizer or equivalent is used tospray the fit test solution into the enclosure.This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distin-guish it from the screening test solution nebu-lizer.

(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding 83grams of sodium saccharin to 100 ml of warmwater.

(6) As before, the test subject shall breathethrough the slightly open mouth with tongueextended, and report if he/she tastes the sweettaste of saccharin.

(7) The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in thefront of the enclosure and an initial concentra-tion of saccharin fit test solution is sprayed intothe enclosure using the same number ofsqueezes (either 10, 20 or 30 squeezes) based onthe number of squeezes required to elicit a tasteresponse as noted during the screening test. Aminimum of 10 squeezes is required.

(8) After generating the aerosol, the test subjectshall be instructed to perform the exercises insection I. A. 14. of this appendix.

(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol concentrationshall be replenished using one half the originalnumber of squeezes used initially (e.g., 5, 10 or15).

(10) The test subject shall indicate to the testconductor if at any time during the fit test thetaste of saccharin is detected. If the test subjectdoes not report tasting the saccharin, the test ispassed.

(11) If the taste of saccharin is detected, the fit isdeemed unsatisfactory and the test is failed. Adifferent respirator shall be tried and the entiretest procedure is repeated (taste thresholdscreening and fit testing).

(12) Since the nebulizer has a tendency to clogduring use, the test operator must make peri-odic checks of the nebulizer to ensure that it isnot clogged. If clogging is found at the end ofthe test session, the test is invalid.

4. BitrexTM (Denatonium Benzoate) Solution AerosolQualitative Fit Test Protocol

The BitrexTM (Denatonium benzoate) solutionaerosol QLFT protocol uses the published saccharintest protocol because that protocol is widely ac-cepted. Bitrex is routinely used as a taste aversionagent in household liquids which children should notbe drinking and is endorsed by the American Med-ical Association, the National Safety Council, and theAmerican Association of Poison Control Centers. Theentire screening and testing procedure shall be ex-plained to the test subject prior to the conduct of thescreening test.

(a) Taste Threshold Screening.

The Bitrex taste threshold screening, performedwithout wearing a respirator, is intended to deter-mine whether the individual being tested can de-tect the taste of Bitrex.

(1) During threshold screening as well as duringfit testing, subjects shall wear an enclosureabout the head and shoulders that is approxi-mately 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter by 14inches (35.6 cm) tall. The front portion of the en-closure shall be clear from the respirator andallow free movement of the head when a respi-rator is worn. An enclosure substantially similar


8 5

to the 3M hood assembly, parts # FT 14 and # FT15 combined, is adequate.

(2) The test enclosure shall have a 3/4 inch (1.9cm) hole in front of the test subject’s nose andmouth area to accommodate the nebulizer noz-zle.

(3) The test subject shall don the test enclosure.Throughout the threshold screening test, thetest subject shall breathe through his or herslightly open mouth with tongue extended. Thesubject is instructed to report when he/she de-tects a bitter taste

(4) Using a DeVilbiss Model 40 Inhalation Med-ication Nebulizer or equivalent, the test conduc-tor shall spray the Threshold Check Solutioninto the enclosure. This Nebulizer shall beclearly marked to distinguish it from the fit testsolution nebulizer.

(5) The Threshold Check Solution is prepared byadding 13.5 milligrams of Bitrex to 100 ml of 5%salt (NaCl) solution in distilled water.

(6) To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb isfirmly squeezed so that the bulb collapses com-pletely, and is then released and allowed to fullyexpand.

(7) An initial ten squeezes are repeated rapidlyand then the test subject is asked whether theBitrex can be tasted. If the test subject reportstasting the bitter taste during the ten squeezes,the screening test is completed. The tastethreshold is noted as ten regardless of the num-ber of squeezes actually completed.

(8) If the first response is negative, ten moresqueezes are repeated rapidly and the test sub-ject is again asked whether the Bitrex is tasted. Ifthe test subject reports tasting the bitter tasteduring the second ten squeezes, the screeningtest is completed. The taste threshold is notedas twenty regardless of the number of squeezesactually completed.

(9) If the second response is negative, ten moresqueezes are repeated rapidly and the test sub-ject is again asked whether the Bitrex is tasted. Ifthe test subject reports tasting the bitter tasteduring the third set of ten squeezes, the screen-ing test is completed. The taste threshold isnoted as thirty regardless of the number ofsqueezes actually completed.

(10) The test conductor will take note of thenumber of squeezes required to solicit a tasteresponse.

(11) If the Bitrex is not tasted after 30 squeezes(step 10), the test subject is unable to taste Bi-trex and may not perform the Bitrex fit test.

(12) If a taste response is elicited, the test sub-ject shall be asked to take note of the taste forreference in the fit test.

(13) Correct use of the nebulizer means that ap-proximately 1 ml of liquid is used at a time inthe nebulizer body.

(14) The nebulizer shall be thoroughly rinsed inwater, shaken to dry, and refilled at least eachmorning and afternoon or at least every fourhours.

(b) Bitrex Solution Aerosol Fit Test Procedure.

(1) The test subject may not eat, drink (exceptplain water), smoke, or chew gum for 15 min-utes before the test.

(2) The fit test uses the same enclosure as thatdescribed in 4. (a) above.

(3) The test subject shall don the enclosurewhile wearing the respirator selected accordingto section I. A. of this appendix. The respiratorshall be properly adjusted and equipped withany type particulate filter(s).

(4) A second DeVilbiss Model 40 InhalationMedication Nebulizer or equivalent is used tospray the fit test solution into the enclosure.This nebulizer shall be clearly marked to distin-guish it from the screening test solution nebu-lizer.

(5) The fit test solution is prepared by adding337.5 mg of Bitrex to 200 ml of a 5% salt (NaCl)solution in warm water.

(6) As before, the test subject shall breathethrough his or her slightly open mouth withtongue extended, and be instructed to report ifhe/she tastes the bitter taste of Bitrex.

(7) The nebulizer is inserted into the hole in thefront of the enclosure and an initial concentra-tion of the fit test solution is sprayed into the en-closure using the same number of squeezes(either 10, 20 or 30 squeezes) based on the num-

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ber of squeezes required to elicit a taste re-sponse as noted during the screening test.

(8) After generating the aerosol, the test subjectshall be instructed to perform the exercises insection I. A. 14. of this appendix.

(9) Every 30 seconds the aerosol concentrationshall be replenished using one half the numberof squeezes used initially (e.g., 5, 10 or 15).

(10) The test subject shall indicate to the testconductor if at any time during the fit test thetaste of Bitrex is detected. If the test subjectdoes not report tasting the Bitrex, the test ispassed.

(11) If the taste of Bitrex is detected, the fit isdeemed unsatisfactory and the test is failed. Adifferent respirator shall be tried and the entiretest procedure is repeated (taste thresholdscreening and fit testing).

5. Irritant Smoke (Stannic Chloride) Protocol

This qualitative fit test uses a person’s response tothe irritating chemicals released in the “smoke” pro-duced by a stannic chloride ventilation smoke tubeto detect leakage into the respirator.

(a) General Requirements and Precautions

(1) The respirator to be tested shall be equippedwith high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) orP100 series filter(s).

(2) Only stannic chloride smoke tubes shall beused for this protocol.

(3) No form of test enclosure or hood for the testsubject shall be used.

(4) The smoke can be irritating to the eyes,lungs, and nasal passages. The test conductorshall take precautions to minimize the test sub-ject’s exposure to irritant smoke. Sensitivityvaries, and certain individuals may respond to agreater degree to irritant smoke. Care shall betaken when performing the sensitivity screeningchecks that determine whether the test subjectcan detect irritant smoke to use only the mini-mum amount of smoke necessary to elicit a re-sponse from the test subject.

(5) The fit test shall be performed in an area withadequate ventilation to prevent exposure of theperson conducting the fit test or the build-up of

irritant smoke in the general atmosphere.

(b) Sensitivity Screening Check

The person to be tested must demonstrate hisor her ability to detect a weak concentration ofthe irritant smoke.

(1) The test operator shall break both ends of aventilation smoke tube containing stannic chlo-ride, and attach one end of the smoke tube to alow flow air pump set to deliver 200 millilitersper minute, or an aspirator squeeze bulb. Thetest operator shall cover the other end of thesmoke tube with a short piece of tubing to pre-vent potential injury from the jagged end of thesmoke tube.

(2) The test operator shall advise the test subjectthat the smoke can be irritating to the eyes,lungs, and nasal passages and instruct the sub-ject to keep his/her eyes closed while the test isperformed.

(3) The test subject shall be allowed to smell aweak concentration of the irritant smoke beforethe respirator is donned to become familiar withits irritating properties and to determine ifhe/she can detect the irritating properties of thesmoke. The test operator shall carefully direct asmall amount of the irritant smoke in the testsubject’s direction to determine that he/she candetect it.

(c) Irritant Smoke Fit Test Procedure

(1) The person being fit tested shall don the res-pirator without assistance, and perform the re-quired user seal check(s).

(2) The test subject shall be instructed to keephis/her eyes closed.

(3) The test operator shall direct the stream of ir-ritant smoke from the smoke tube toward thefaceseal area of the test subject, using the lowflow pump or the squeeze bulb. The test opera-tor shall begin at least 12 inches from the face-piece and move the smoke stream around thewhole perimeter of the mask. The operator shallgradually make two more passes around theperimeter of the mask, moving to within sixinches of the respirator.

(4) If the person being tested has not had an in-voluntary response and/or detected the irritantsmoke, proceed with the test exercises.


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(5) The exercises identified in section I.A. 14. ofthis appendix shall be performed by the testsubject while the respirator seal is being contin-ually challenged by the smoke, directed aroundthe perimeter of the respirator at a distance ofsix inches.

(6) If the person being fit tested reports detect-ing the irritant smoke at any time, the test isfailed. The person being retested must repeatthe entire sensitivity check and fit test proce-dure.

(7) Each test subject passing the irritant smoketest without evidence of a response (involuntarycough, irritation) shall be given a second sensi-tivity screening check, with the smoke from thesame smoke tube used during the fit test, oncethe respirator has been removed, to determinewhether he/she still reacts to the smoke. Failureto evoke a response shall void the fit test.

(8) If a response is produced during this secondsensitivity check, then the fit test is passed.

C. Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT) Protocols

The following quantitative fit testing procedureshave been demonstrated to be acceptable: Quantita-tive fit testing using a non-hazardous test aerosol(such as corn oil, polyethylene glycol 400 [PEG 400],di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate [DEHS], or sodium chlo-ride) generated in a test chamber, and employing in-strumentation to quantify the fit of the respirator;Quantitative fit testing using ambient aerosol as thetest agent and appropriate instrumentation (conden-sation nuclei counter) to quantify the respirator fit;Quantitative fit testing using controlled negativepressure and appropriate instrumentation to meas-ure the volumetric leak rate of a facepiece to quantifythe respirator fit.

1. General

(a) The employer shall ensure that persons admin-istering QNFT are able to calibrate equipment andperform tests properly, recognize invalid tests, calculate fit factors properly and ensure that testequipment is in proper working order.

(b) The employer shall ensure that QNFT equip-ment is kept clean, and is maintained and cali-brated according to the manufacturer’sinstructions so as to operate at the parameters forwhich it was designed.

2. Generated Aerosol Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol

(a) Apparatus.

(1) Instrumentation. Aerosol generation, dilu-tion, and measurement systems using particu-lates (corn oil, polyethylene glycol 400 [PEG400], di-2-ethyl hexyl sebacate [DEHS] orsodium chloride) as test aerosols shall be usedfor quantitative fit testing.

(2) Test chamber. The test chamber shall belarge enough to permit all test subjects to per-form freely all required exercises without dis-turbing the test agent concentration or themeasurement apparatus. The test chamber shallbe equipped and constructed so that the testagent is effectively isolated from the ambientair, yet uniform in concentration throughout thechamber.

(3) When testing air-purifying respirators, thenormal filter or cartridge element shall be re-placed with a high efficiency particulate air(HEPA) or P100 series filter supplied by thesame manufacturer.

(4) The sampling instrument shall be selected sothat a computer record or strip chart record maybe made of the test showing the rise and fall ofthe test agent concentration with each inspira-tion and expiration at fit factors of at least 2,000.Integrators or computers that integrate theamount of test agent penetration leakage intothe respirator for each exercise may be usedprovided a record of the readings is made.

(5) The combination of substitute air-purifyingelements, test agent and test agent concentra-tion shall be such that the test subject is not ex-posed in excess of an established exposure limitfor the test agent at any time during the testingprocess, based upon the length of the exposureand the exposure limit duration.

(6) The sampling port on the test specimen res-pirator shall be placed and constructed so thatno leakage occurs around the port (e.g., wherethe respirator is probed), a free air flow is al-lowed into the sampling line at all times, andthere is no interference with the fit or perform-ance of the respirator. The in-mask sampling de-vice (probe) shall be designed and used so thatthe air sample is drawn from the breathing zoneof the test subject, midway between the noseand mouth and with the probe extending intothe facepiece cavity at least 1/4 inch.

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(7) The test setup shall permit the person ad-ministering the test to observe the test subjectinside the chamber during the test.

(8) The equipment generating the test atmos-phere shall maintain the concentration of testagent constant to within a 10 percent variationfor the duration of the test.

(9) The time lag (interval between an event andthe recording of the event on the strip chart orcomputer or integrator) shall be kept to a mini-mum. There shall be a clear association be-tween the occurrence of an event and its beingrecorded.

(10) The sampling line tubing for the test cham-ber atmosphere and for the respirator samplingport shall be of equal diameter and of the samematerial. The length of the two lines shall beequal.

(11) The exhaust flow from the test chambershall pass through an appropriate filter (i.e.,high efficiency particulate filter) before release.

(12) When sodium chloride aerosol is used, therelative humidity inside the test chamber shallnot exceed 50 percent.

(13) The limitations of instrument detection shallbe taken into account when determining the fitfactor.

(14) Test respirators shall be maintained inproper working order and be inspected regu-larly for deficiencies such as cracks or missingvalves and gaskets.

(b) Procedural Requirements.

(1) When performing the initial user seal checkusing a positive or negative pressure check, thesampling line shall be crimped closed in orderto avoid air pressure leakage during either ofthese pressure checks.

(2) The use of an abbreviated screening QLFTtest is optional. Such a test may be utilized inorder to quickly identify poor fitting respiratorsthat passed the positive and/or negative pres-sure test and reduce the amount of QNFT time.The use of the CNC QNFT instrument in thecount mode is another optional method to ob-tain a quick estimate of fit and eliminate poor fit-ting respirators before going on to perform afull QNFT.

(3) A reasonably stable test agent concentrationshall be measured in the test chamber prior totesting. For canopy or shower curtain types oftest units, the determination of the test agent’sstability may be established after the test sub-ject has entered the test environment.

(4) Immediately after the subject enters the testchamber, the test agent concentration inside therespirator shall be measured to ensure that thepeak penetration does not exceed 5 percent fora half mask or 1 percent for a full facepiece res-pirator.

(5) A stable test agent concentration shall be ob-tained prior to the actual start of testing.

(6) Respirator restraining straps shall not beover-tightened for testing. The straps shall beadjusted by the wearer without assistance fromother persons to give a reasonably comfortablefit typical of normal use. The respirator shall notbe adjusted once the fit test exercises begin.

(7) The test shall be terminated whenever anysingle peak penetration exceeds 5 percent forhalf masks and 1 percent for full facepiece respi-rators. The test subject shall be refitted andretested.

(8) Calculation of fit factors.

(i) The fit factor shall be determined for thequantitative fit test by taking the ratio of theaverage chamber concentration to the con-centration measured inside the respirator foreach test exercise except the grimace exer-cise.

(ii) The average test chamber concentrationshall be calculated as the arithmetic averageof the concentration measured before andafter each test (i.e., 7 exercises) or the arith-metic average of the concentration measuredbefore and after each exercise or the true av-erage measured continuously during the res-pirator sample.

(iii) The concentration of the challenge agentinside the respirator shall be determined byone of the following methods:

(A) Average peak penetration method meansthe method of determining test agent pene-tration into the respirator utilizing a strip chartrecorder, integrator, or computer. The agent


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penetration is determined by an average ofthe peak heights on the graph or by computerintegration, for each exercise except the gri-mace exercise. Integrators or computers thatcalculate the actual test agent penetration intothe respirator for each exercise will also beconsidered to meet the requirements of theaverage peak penetration method.

(B) Maximum peak penetration methodmeans the method of determining test agentpenetration in the respirator as determined bystrip chart recordings of the test. The highestpeak penetration for a given exercise is takento be representative of average penetrationinto the respirator for that exercise.

(C) Integration by calculation of the areaunder the individual peak for each exerciseexcept the grimace exercise. This includescomputerized integration.

(D) The calculation of the overall fit factorusing individual exercise fit factors involvesfirst converting the exercise fit factors to pen-etration values, determining the average, andthen converting that result back to a fit factor.This procedure is described in the followingequation:

Where ff1, ff2, ff3, etc. are the fit factors for exercises 1, 2, 3, etc.

(9) The test subject shall not be permitted towear a half mask or quarter facepiece respiratorunless a minimum fit factor of 100 is obtained,or a full facepiece respirator unless a minimumfit factor of 500 is obtained.

(10) Filters used for quantitative fit testing shallbe replaced whenever increased breathing re-sistance is encountered, or when the test agenthas altered the integrity of the filter media.

3. Ambient aerosol condensation nuclei counter(CNC) quantitative fit testing protocol.

The ambient aerosol condensation nuclei counter(CNC) quantitative fit testing (Portacount TM ) protocolquantitatively fit tests respirators with the use of aprobe. The probed respirator is only used for quanti-tative fit tests. A probed respirator has a special sam-pling device, installed on the respirator, that allowsthe probe to sample the air from inside the mask. A

probed respirator is required for each make, style,model, and size that the employer uses and can beobtained from the respirator manufacturer or distrib-utor. The CNC instrument manufacturer, TSI Inc., alsoprovides probe attachments (TSI sampling adapters)that permit fit testing in an employee’s own respira-tor. A minimum fit factor pass level of at least 100 isnecessary for a half-mask respirator and a minimumfit factor pass level of at least 500 is required for a fullfacepiece negative pressure respirator. The entirescreening and testing procedure shall be explainedto the test subject prior to the conduct of the screen-ing test.

(a) Portacount Fit Test Requirements.

(1) Check the respirator to make sure the sam-pling probe and line are properly attached to thefacepiece and that the respirator is fitted with aparticulate filter capable of preventing signifi-cant penetration by the ambient particles usedfor the fit test (e.g., NIOSH 42 CFR 84 series 100,series 99, or series 95 particulate filter) per man-ufacturer’s instruction.

(2) Instruct the person to be tested to don therespirator for five minutes before the fit teststarts. This purges the ambient particles trappedinside the respirator and permits the wearer tomake certain the respirator is comfortable. Thisindividual shall already have been trained onhow to wear the respirator properly.

(3) Check the following conditions for the ade-quacy of the respirator fit: Chin properly placed;Adequate strap tension, not overly tightened; Fitacross nose bridge; Respirator of proper size tospan distance from nose to chin; Tendency ofthe respirator to slip; Self-observation in a mir-ror to evaluate fit and respirator position.

(4) Have the person wearing the respirator do auser seal check. If leakage is detected, deter-mine the cause. If leakage is from a poorly fit-ting facepiece, try another size of the samemodel respirator, or another model of respirator.

(5) Follow the manufacturer’s instructions foroperating the Portacount and proceed with thetest.

(6) The test subject shall be instructed to per-form the exercises in section I. A. 14. of this ap-pendix.

(7) After the test exercises, the test subject shallbe questioned by the test conductor regarding

9 0


the comfort of the respirator upon completion ofthe protocol. If it has become unacceptable, an-other model of respirator shall be tried.

(b) Portacount Test Instrument.

(1) The Portacount will automatically stop andcalculate the overall fit factor for the entire set ofexercises. The overall fit factor is what counts.The Pass or Fail message will indicate whetheror not the test was successful. If the test was aPass, the fit test is over.

(2) Since the pass or fail criterion of the Porta-count is user programmable, the test operatorshall ensure that the pass or fail criterion meetthe requirements for minimum respirator per-formance in this Appendix.

(3) A record of the test needs to be kept on file,assuming the fit test was successful. The recordmust contain the test subject’s name; overall fitfactor; make, model, style, and size of respiratorused; and date tested.

4. Controlled negative pressure (CNP) quantitative fittesting protocol.

The CNP protocol provides an alternative to aerosolfit test methods. The CNP fit test method technologyis based on exhausting air from a temporarily sealedrespirator facepiece to generate and then maintain aconstant negative pressure inside the facepiece. Therate of air exhaust is controlled so that a constantnegative pressure is maintained in the respirator dur-ing the fit test. The level of pressure is selected toreplicate the mean inspiratory pressure that causesleakage into the respirator under normal use condi-tions. With pressure held constant, air flow out of therespirator is equal to air flow into the respirator.Therefore, measurement of the exhaust stream thatis required to hold the pressure in the temporarilysealed respirator constant yields a direct measure ofleakage air flow into the respirator. The CNP fit testmethod measures leak rates through the facepieceas a method for determining the facepiece fit fornegative pressure respirators. The CNP instrumentmanufacturer Occupational Health Dynamics ofBirmingham, Alabama also provides attachments(sampling manifolds) that replace the filter cartridgesto permit fit testing in an employee’s own respirator.To perform the test, the test subject closes his or hermouth and holds his/her breath, after which an airpump removes air from the respirator facepiece at apre-selected constant pressure. The facepiece fit isexpressed as the leak rate through the facepiece, ex-pressed as milliliters per minute. The quality and va-

lidity of the CNP fit tests are determined by the de-gree to which the in-mask pressure tracks the testpressure during the system measurement time ofapproximately five seconds. Instantaneous feedbackin the form of a real-time pressure trace of the in-mask pressure is provided and used to determinetest validity and quality. A minimum fit factor passlevel of 100 is necessary for a half-mask respiratorand a minimum fit factor of at least 500 is requiredfor a full facepiece respirator. The entire screeningand testing procedure shall be explained to the testsubject prior to the conduct of the screening test.

(a) CNP Fit Test Requirements.

(1) The instrument shall have a non-adjustabletest pressure of 15.0 mm water pressure.

(2) The CNP system defaults selected for testpressure shall be set at -- 15 mm of water (-0.58inches of water) and the modeled inspiratoryflow rate shall be 53.8 liters per minute for per-forming fit tests.

(Note: CNP systems have built-in capability toconduct fit testing that is specific to unique workrate, mask, and gender situations that mightapply in a specific workplace. Use of system de-fault values, which were selected to representrespirator wear with medium cartridge resist-ance at a low-moderate work rate, will allowinter-test comparison of the respirator fit.)

(3) The individual who conducts the CNP fit test-ing shall be thoroughly trained to perform thetest.

(4) The respirator filter or cartridge needs to bereplaced with the CNP test manifold. The inhala-tion valve downstream from the manifold eitherneeds to be temporarily removed or proppedopen.

(5) The employer must train the test subject tohold his or her breath for at least 10 seconds.

(6) The test subject must don the test respiratorwithout any assistance from the test administra-tor who is conducting the CNP fit test. The respi-rator must not be adjusted once the fit-testexercises begin. Any adjustment voids the test,and the test subject must repeat the fit test.

(7) The QNFT protocol shall be followed accord-ing to section I. C. 1. of this appendix with an ex-ception for the CNP test exercises.


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(b) CNP Test Exercises.

(1) Normal breathing. In a normal standing posi-tion, without talking, the subject shall breathenormally for 1 minute. After the normal breath-ing exercise, the subject needs to hold headstraight ahead and hold his or her breath for 10seconds during the test measurement.

(2) Deep breathing. In a normal standing posi-tion, the subject shall breathe slowly and deeplyfor 1 minute, being careful not to hyperventilate.After the deep breathing exercise, the subjectshall hold his or her head straight ahead andhold his or her breath for 10 seconds during testmeasurement.

(3) Turning head side to side. Standing in place,the subject shall slowly turn his or her headfrom side to side between the extreme positionson each side for 1 minute. The head shall beheld at each extreme momentarily so the sub-ject can inhale at each side. After the turninghead side to side exercise, the subject needs tohold head full left and hold his or her breath for10 seconds during test measurement. Next, thesubject needs to hold head full right and holdhis or her breath for 10 seconds during testmeasurement.

(4) Moving head up and down. Standing inplace, the subject shall slowly move his or herhead up and down for 1 minute. The subjectshall be instructed to inhale in the up position(i.e., when looking toward the ceiling). After themoving head up and down exercise, the subjectshall hold his or her head full up and hold his orher breath for 10 seconds during test measure-ment. Next, the subject shall hold his or herhead full down and hold his or her breath for 10seconds during test measurement.

(5) Talking. The subject shall talk out loud slowlyand loud enough so as to be heard clearly bythe test conductor. The subject can read from aprepared text such as the Rainbow Passage,count backward from 100, or recite a memorizedpoem or song for 1 minute. After the talking ex-ercise, the subject shall hold his or her headstraight ahead and hold his or her breath for 10seconds during the test measurement.

(6) Grimace. The test subject shall grimace bysmiling or frowning for 15 seconds.

(7) Bending Over. The test subject shall bend atthe waist as if he or she were to touch his or hertoes for 1 minute. Jogging in place shall be sub-

stituted for this exercise in those test environ-ments such as shroud-type QNFT units that pro-hibit bending at the waist. After the bendingover exercise, the subject shall hold his or herhead straight ahead and hold his or her breathfor 10 seconds during the test measurement.

(8) Normal Breathing. The test subject shall re-move and re-don the respirator within a one-minute period. Then, in a normal standingposition, without talking, the subject shallbreathe normally for 1 minute. After the normalbreathing exercise, the subject shall hold his orher head straight ahead and hold his or herbreath for 10 seconds during the test measure-ment. After the test exercises, the test subjectshall be questioned by the test conductor re-garding the comfort of the respirator upon com-pletion of the protocol. If it has becomeunacceptable, another model of a respiratorshall be tried.

(c) CNP Test Instrument.

(1) The test instrument must have an effectiveaudio-warning device, or a visual-warning de-vice in the form of a screen tracing, that indi-cates when the test subject fails to hold his orher breath during the test. The test must be ter-minated and restarted from the beginning whenthe test subject fails to hold his or her breathduring the test. The test subject then may be re-fitted and retested.

(2) A record of the test shall be kept on file, as-suming the fit test was successful. The recordmust contain the test subject’s name; overall fitfactor; make, model, style and size of respiratorused; and date tested.

5. Controlled negative pressure (CNP) REDON quan-titative fit testing protocol.

(a) When administering this protocol to test sub-jects, employers must comply with the require-ments specified in paragraphs (a) and (c) of PartI.C.4 of this appendix (“Controlled negative pres-sure (CNP) quantitative fit testing protocol”), aswell as use the test exercises described below inparagraph (b) of this protocol instead of the testexercises specified in paragraph (b) of Part I.C.4 ofthis appendix.

(b) Employers must ensure that each test subjectbeing fit tested using this protocol follows the ex-ercise and measurement procedures, including theorder of administration, described below in TableA-1 of this appendix.

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(c) After completing the test exercises, the test ad-ministrator must question each test subject regard-ing the comfort of the respirator. When a test subjectstates that the respirator is unacceptable, the em-ployer must ensure that the test administrator re-peats the protocol using another respirator model.

(d) Employers must determine the overall fit factorfor each test subject by calculating the harmonicmean of the fit testing exercises as follows:

Where:N = The number of exercises;FF1 = The fit factor for the first exercise;FF2 = The fit factor for the second exercise; andFFN = The fit factor for the nth exercise.

Part II. New Fit Test Protocols

A. Any person may submit to OSHA an applicationfor approval of a new fit test protocol. If the applica-tion meets the following criteria, OSHA will initiate arulemaking proceeding under section 6(b)(7) of theOSH Act to determine whether to list the new proto-col as an approved protocol in this Appendix A.

B. The application must include a detailed descrip-tion of the proposed new fit test protocol. This appli-cation must be supported by either:

1. A test report prepared by an independent govern-ment research laboratory (e.g., Lawrence LivermoreNational Laboratory, Los Alamos National Labora-tory, the National Institute for Standards and Tech-nology) stating that the laboratory has tested theprotocol and had found it to be accurate and reliable;or

2. An article that has been published in a peer-reviewed industrial hygiene journal describing theprotocol and explaining how test data support theprotocol’s accuracy and reliability.

C. If OSHA determines that additional information isrequired before the Agency commences a rulemak-ing proceeding under this section, OSHA will sonotify the applicant and afford the applicant the op-portunity to submit the supplemental information.Initiation of a rulemaking proceeding will be deferreduntil OSHA has received and evaluated the supple-mental information.

Table A-1. CNP REDON Quantitative Fit Testing Protocol

Exercises(1) Exercise procedure Measurement procedure

Facing Forward Stand and breathe normally, Face forward, while holding breath without talking, for 30 seconds. for 10 seconds.

Bending Over Bend at the waist, as if going to touch Face parallel to the floor, whilehis or her toes, for 30 seconds. holding breath for 10 seconds

Head Shaking For about three seconds, shake head Face forward, while holding breath back and forth vigorously several times for 10 seconds.while shouting.

REDON 1 Remove the respirator mask, loosen all Face forward, while holding breath facepiece straps, and then redon the for 10 seconds. respirator mask.

REDON 2 Remove the respirator mask, loosen all Face forward, while holding breathfacepiece straps, and then redon the for 10 seconds.respirator mask again.

1 Exercises are listed in the order in which they are to be administered.


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Appendix B-1 to §1910.134: User Seal Check Procedures(Mandatory)

The individual who uses a tight-fitting respirator is toperform a user seal check to ensure that an adequateseal is achieved each time the respirator is put on. Ei-ther the positive and negative pressure checks listedin this appendix, or the respirator manufacturer’srecommended user seal check method shall be used.User seal checks are not substitutes for qualitative orquantitative fit tests.

I. Facepiece Positive and/or Negative PressureChecks

A. Positive pressure check. Close off the exhalationvalve and exhale gently into the facepiece. The facefit is considered satisfactory if a slight positive pres-sure can be built up inside the facepiece without anyevidence of outward leakage of air at the seal. Formost respirators this method of leak testing requiresthe wearer to first remove the exhalation valve coverbefore closing off the exhalation valve and then care-fully replacing it after the test.

B. Negative pressure check. Close off the inlet open-ing of the canister or cartridge(s) by covering withthe palm of the hand(s) or by replacing the filterseal(s), inhale gently so that the facepiece collapsesslightly, and hold the breath for ten seconds. The de-sign of the inlet opening of some cartridges cannotbe effectively covered with the palm of the hand. Thetest can be performed by covering the inlet openingof the cartridge with a thin latex or nitrile glove. If thefacepiece remains in its slightly collapsed conditionand no inward leakage of air is detected, the tight-ness of the respirator is considered satisfactory.

II. Manufacturer’s Recommended User SealCheck Procedures

The respirator manufacturer’s recommended pro-cedures for performing a user seal check may beused instead of the positive and/or negative pres-sure check procedures provided that the employerdemonstrates that the manufacturer’s procedures areequally effective.

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Appendix B-2 to §1910.134: Respirator Cleaning Procedures(Mandatory)

These procedures are provided for employer usewhen cleaning respirators. They are general in na-ture, and the employer as an alternative may use thecleaning recommendations provided by the manu-facturer of the respirators used by their employees,provided such procedures are as effective as thoselisted here in Appendix B- 2. Equivalent effectivenesssimply means that the procedures used must accom-plish the objectives set forth in Appendix B-2, i.e.,must ensure that the respirator is properly cleanedand disinfected in a manner that prevents damage tothe respirator and does not cause harm to the user.

I. Procedures for Cleaning Respirators

A. Remove filters, cartridges, or canisters. Disassem-ble facepieces by removing speaking diaphragms,demand and pressure-demand valve assemblies,hoses, or any components recommended by themanufacturer. Discard or repair any defective parts.

B. Wash components in warm (43 deg. C [110 deg. F]maximum) water with a mild detergent or with acleaner recommended by the manufacturer. A stiffbristle (not wire) brush may be used to facilitate theremoval of dirt.

C. Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43deg. C [110 deg. F] maximum), preferably runningwater. Drain.

D. When the cleaner used does not contain a disin-fecting agent, respirator components should be im-mersed for two minutes in one of the following:

1. Hypochlorite solution (50 ppm of chlorine) madeby adding approximately one milliliter of laundrybleach to one liter of water at 43 deg. C (110 deg. F);or,

2. Aqueous solution of iodine (50 ppm iodine) madeby adding approximately 0.8 milliliters of tincture ofiodine (6-8 grams ammonium and/or potassium io-dide/100 cc of 45% alcohol) to one liter of water at 43deg. C (110 deg. F); or,

3. Other commercially available cleansers of equiva-lent disinfectant quality when used as directed, iftheir use is recommended or approved by the respi-rator manufacturer.

E. Rinse components thoroughly in clean, warm (43deg. C [110 deg. F] maximum), preferably runningwater. Drain. The importance of thorough rinsingcannot be overemphasized. Detergents or disinfec-tants that dry on facepieces may result in dermatitis.In addition, some disinfectants may cause deteriora-tion of rubber or corrosion of metal parts if not com-pletely removed.

F. Components should be hand-dried with a cleanlint-free cloth or air-dried.

G. Reassemble facepiece, replacing filters, car-tridges, and canisters where necessary.

H. Test the respirator to ensure that all componentswork properly.


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Appendix C to §1910.134: OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire (Mandatory)

To the employer: Answers to questions in Section 1,and to question 9 in Section 2 of Part A, do not re-quire a medical examination.

To the employee:

Can you read (circle one): Yes/No

Your employer must allow you to answer this ques-tionnaire during normal working hours, or at a timeand place that is convenient to you. To maintain yourconfidentiality, your employer or supervisor mustnot look at or review your answers, and your em-ployer must tell you how to deliver or send thisquestionnaire to the health care professional whowill review it.

Part A. Section 1. (Mandatory)

The following information must be provided byevery employee who has been selected to use anytype of respirator (please print).

1. Today’s date:___________________________________

2. Your name:____________________________________

3. Your age (to nearest year):______________________

4. Sex (circle one): Male/Female

5. Your height: __________ ft. __________ in.

6. Your weight: ____________ lbs.

7. Your job title:___________________________________

8. A phone number where you can be reached by thehealth care professional who reviews this question-naire (include the Area Code): ____________________

9. The best time to phone you at this number:___________________________

10. Has your employer told you how to contact thehealth care professional who will review this ques-tionnaire (circle one): Yes/No

11. Check the type of respirator you will use (you cancheck more than one category):

a. ______ N, R, or P disposable respirator (filter-mask, non-cartridge type only).b. ______ Other type (for example, half- or full-face-piece type, powered-air purifying, supplied-air, self-contained breathing apparatus).

12. Have you worn a respirator (circle one): Yes/No

If “yes,” whattype(s):_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Part A. Section 2. (Mandatory)

Questions 1 through 9 below must be answered byevery employee who has been selected to use anytype of respirator (please circle “yes” or “no”).

1. Do you currently smoke tobacco, or have yousmoked tobacco in the last month: Yes/No

2. Have you ever had any of the following condi-tions?

Seizures (fits): Yes/NoDiabetes (sugar disease): Yes/NoAllergic reactions that interfere with your breathing: Yes/NoClaustrophobia (fear of closed-in places): Yes/NoTrouble smelling odors: Yes/No

3. Have you ever had any of the following pulmonaryor lung problems?

Asbestosis: Yes/NoAsthma: Yes/NoChronic bronchitis: Yes/NoEmphysema: Yes/NoPneumonia: Yes/NoTuberculosis: Yes/NoSilicosis: Yes/NoPneumothorax (collapsed lung): Yes/NoLung cancer: Yes/NoBroken ribs: Yes/NoAny chest injuries or surgeries: Yes/NoAny other lung problem that you’ve been told about: Yes/No

4. Do you currently have any of the following symp-toms of pulmonary or lung illness?

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Shortness of breath: Yes/NoShortness of breath when walking fast on level ground or walking up a slight hill or incline: Yes/NoShortness of breath when walking with other people at an ordinary pace on level ground: Yes/NoHave to stop for breath when walking at your own pace on level ground: Yes/NoShortness of breath when washing or dressing yourself: Yes/NoShortness of breath that interferes with your job: Yes/NoCoughing that produces phlegm (thick sputum): Yes/NoCoughing that wakes you early in the morning: Yes/NoCoughing that occurs mostly when you are lyingdown: Yes/NoCoughing up blood in the last month: Yes/NoWheezing: Yes/NoWheezing that interferes with your job: Yes/NoChest pain when you breathe deeply: Yes/NoAny other symptoms that you think may be relatedto lung problems: Yes/No

5. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovas-cular or heart problems?

Heart attack: Yes/NoStroke: Yes/NoAngina: Yes/NoHeart failure: Yes/NoSwelling in your legs or feet (not caused bywalking): Yes/NoHeart arrhythmia (heart beating irregularly): Yes/NoHigh blood pressure: Yes/NoAny other heart problem that you’ve been toldabout: Yes/No

6. Have you ever had any of the following cardiovas-cular or heart symptoms?

Frequent pain or tightness in your chest: Yes/NoPain or tightness in your chest during physical activity: Yes/NoPain or tightness in your chest that interferes withyour job: Yes/NoIn the past two years, have you noticed your heartskipping or missing a beat: Yes/NoHeartburn or indigestion that is not related to eating: Yes/ NoAny other symptoms that you think may be relatedto heart or circulation problems: Yes/No

7. Do you currently take medication for any of thefollowing problems?

Breathing or lung problems: Yes/NoHeart trouble: Yes/NoBlood pressure: Yes/NoSeizures (fits): Yes/No

8. If you’ve used a respirator, have you ever had anyof the following problems? (If you’ve never used arespirator, check the following space and go to ques-tion 9:)

Eye irritation: Yes/NoSkin allergies or rashes: Yes/NoAnxiety: Yes/NoGeneral weakness or fatigue: Yes/NoAny other problem that interferes with your use ofa respirator: Yes/No

9. Would you like to talk to the health care profes-sional who will review this questionnaire about youranswers to this questionnaire: Yes/No

Questions 10 to 15 below must be answered byevery employee who has been selected to use eithera full-facepiece respirator or a self-contained breath-ing apparatus (SCBA). For employees who havebeen selected to use other types of respirators, an-swering these questions is voluntary.

10. Have you ever lost vision in either eye (temporar-ily or permanently): Yes/No

11. Do you currently have any of the following visionproblems?

Wear contact lenses: Yes/NoWear glasses: Yes/NoColor blind: Yes/NoAny other eye or vision problem: Yes/No

12. Have you ever had an injury to your ears, includ-ing a broken ear drum: Yes/No

13. Do you currently have any of the following hear-ing problems?

Difficulty hearing: Yes/NoWear a hearing aid: Yes/NoAny other hearing or ear problem: Yes/No

14. Have you ever had a back injury: Yes/No

15. Do you currently have any of the following mus-culoskeletal problems?

Weakness in any of your arms, hands, legs, or feet:Yes/No


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Back pain: Yes/NoDifficulty fully moving your arms and legs: Yes/NoPain or stiffness when you lean forward or back-ward at the waist: Yes/NoDifficulty fully moving your head up or down:Yes/NoDifficulty fully moving your head side to side:Yes/NoDifficulty bending at your knees: Yes/NoDifficulty squatting to the ground: Yes/NoClimbing a flight of stairs or a ladder carryingmore than 25 lbs: Yes/NoAny other muscle or skeletal problem that inter-feres with using a respirator: Yes/No

Part B

Any of the following questions, and other questionsnot listed, may be added to the questionnaire at thediscretion of the health care professional who willreview the questionnaire.

1. In your present job, are you working at high alti-tudes (over 5,000 feet) or in a place that has lowerthan normal amounts of oxygen: Yes/No

If “yes,” do you have feelings of dizziness, short-ness of breath, pounding in your chest, or othersymptoms when you’re working under these con-ditions: Yes/No

2. At work or at home, have you ever been exposedto hazardous solvents, hazardous airborne chemicals(e.g., gases, fumes, or dust), or have you come intoskin contact with hazardous chemicals: Yes/No

If “yes,” name the chemicals if you knowthem:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Have you ever worked with any of the materials,or under any of the conditions, listed below:

Asbestos: Yes/NoSilica (e.g., in sandblasting): Yes/NoTungsten/cobalt (e.g., grinding or welding this material): Yes/NoBeryllium: Yes/NoAluminum: Yes/NoCoal (for example, mining): Yes/NoIron: Yes/NoTin: Yes/NoDusty environments: Yes/NoAny other hazardous exposures: Yes/No

If “yes,” describe these exposures:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. List any second jobs or side businesses youhave:_______________________________________________________________________________________________

5. List your previous occupations:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. List your current and previous hobbies:_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

7. Have you been in the military services? Yes/NoIf “yes,” were you exposed to biological or chemi-cal agents (either in training or combat): Yes/No

8. Have you ever worked on a HAZMAT team?Yes/No

9. Other than medications for breathing and lungproblems, heart trouble, blood pressure, andseizures mentioned earlier in this questionnaire, areyou taking any other medications for any reason (in-cluding over-the-counter medications): Yes/No

If “yes,” name the medications if you knowthem:__________________________________________

10. Will you be using any of the following items withyour respirator(s)?

HEPA Filters: Yes/NoCanisters (for example, gas masks): Yes/NoCartridges: Yes/No

11. How often are you expected to use the respira-tor(s) (circle “yes” or “no” for all answers that applyto you)?:

Escape only (no rescue): Yes/NoEmergency rescue only: Yes/NoLess than 5 hours per week: Yes/NoLess than 2 hours per day: Yes/No2 to 4 hours per day: Yes/NoOver 4 hours per day: Yes/No

12. During the period you are using the respirator(s),is your work effort:

Light (less than 200 kcal per hour): Yes/No

If “yes,” how long does this period last during theaverage shift:____________hrs.____________mins.

Examples of a light work effort are sitting while

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writing, typing, drafting, or performing light as-sembly work; or standing while operating a drillpress (1-3 lbs.) or controlling machines.

Moderate (200 to 350 kcal per hour): Yes/No


Examples of moderate work effort are sitting whilenailing or filing; driving a truck or bus in urban traf-fic; standing while drilling, nailing, performing as-sembly work, or transferring a moderate load(about 35 lbs.) at trunk level; walking on a level sur-face about 2 mph or down a 5-degree grade about3 mph; or pushing a wheelbarrow with a heavyload (about 100 lbs.) on a level surface.

Heavy (above 350 kcal per hour): Yes/No


Examples of heavy work are lifting a heavy load(about 50 lbs.) from the floor to your waist orshoulder; working on a loading dock; shoveling;standing while bricklaying or chipping castings;walking up an 8-degree grade about 2 mph; climb-ing stairs with a heavy load (about 50 lbs.).

13. Will you be wearing protective clothing and/orequipment (other than the respirator) when you’reusing your respirator: Yes/No

If “yes,” describe this protective clothing and/orequipment:_____________________________________________________________________________________

14. Will you be working under hot conditions (tem-perature exceeding 77 deg. F): Yes/No

15. Will you be working under humid conditions:Yes/No

16. Describe the work you’ll be doing while you’reusing your respirator(s)________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

17. Describe any special or hazardous conditions youmight encounter when you’re using yourrespirator(s) (for example, confined spaces, life-threatening gases):______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

18. Provide the following information, if you know it,for each toxic substance that you’ll be exposed towhen you’re using your respirator(s):

Name of the first toxic sustance:_________________________________________________________________Estimated maximum exposure level pershift:___________________________________________Duration of exposure pershift:___________________________________________Name of the second toxic sub-stance:_________________________________________Estimated maximum exposure level pershift:___________________________________________Duration of exposure pershift:___________________________________________Name of the third toxic sub-stance:_________________________________________Estimated maximum exposure level pershift:___________________________________________Duration of exposure pershift:___________________________________________The name of any other toxic substances that you’llbe exposed to while using your respirator:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

19. Describe any special responsibilities you’ll havewhile using your respirator(s) that may affect thesafety and well-being of others (for example, rescue,security):________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


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Appendix D to §1910.134: Information for Employees UsingRespirators When Not RequiredUnder the Standard (Mandatory)

Respirators are an effective method of protectionagainst designated hazards when properly selectedand worn. Respirator use is encouraged, even whenexposures are below the exposure limit, to providean additional level of comfort and protection forworkers. However, if a respirator is used improperlyor not kept clean, the respirator itself can become ahazard to the worker. Sometimes, workers may wearrespirators to avoid exposures to hazards, even if theamount of hazardous substance does not exceed thelimits set by OSHA standards. If your employer pro-vides respirators for your voluntary use, or if youprovide your own respirator, you need to take certainprecautions to be sure that the respirator itself doesnot present a hazard.

You should do the following:

1. Read and heed all instructions provided by themanufacturer on use, maintenance, cleaning andcare, and warnings regarding the respirators limita-tions.

2. Choose respirators certified for use to protectagainst the contaminant of concern. NIOSH, the Na-tional Institute for Occupational Safety and Health ofthe U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,certifies respirators. A label or statement of certifica-tion should appear on the respirator or respiratorpackaging. It will tell you what the respirator is de-signed for and how much it will protect you.

3. Do not wear your respirator into atmospheres con-taining contaminants for which your respirator is notdesigned to protect against. For example, a respira-tor designed to filter dust particles will not protectyou against gases, vapors, or very small solid parti-cles of fumes or smoke.

4. Keep track of your respirator so that you do notmistakenly use someone else's respirator.

[63 FR 1152, Jan. 8, 1998; 63 FR 20098, 20099, April23, 1998; assembled at 69 FR 46993, Aug. 4, 2004, 71FR 16672, April 3, 2006; 71 FR 50187, August 24,2006]

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Attachment 4: Sample ProgramSmall Entity Compliance Guide: Sample RespiratoryProtection Program (fill in blanks with your company’s/facility’s information).

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Purpose 2. Scope and Application 3. Responsibilities

• Program Administrator • Supervisors• Workers

4. Program Elements • Selection Procedures: Program Administration,

Change Schedules• Medical Evaluation• Fit Testing • Respirator Use • Air Quality • Cleaning, Maintenance, Change Schedules, and

Storage • Training

5. Program Evaluation 6. Documentation and Recordkeeping

1. Purpose

____________________________ has determined that employees in the Prep, Coating, Assembly, and Mainte-nance departments are exposed to respiratory hazardsduring routine operations. These hazards include wooddust, particulates, and vapors, and in some cases repre-sent Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)conditions. The purpose of this program is to ensurethat all ____________________________ employees areprotected from exposure to these respiratory hazards.

Engineering controls, such as ventilation and substitu-tion of less toxic materials, are the first line of defenseat ____________________________; however, engineeringcontrols have not always been feasible for some of ouroperations, or have not always completely controlledthe identified hazards. In these situations, respiratorsand other protective equipment must be used. Respira-tors are also needed to protect employees’ health during emergencies. The work processes requiring res-pirator use at ____________________________ are outlinedin Table 1 in the Scope and Application section of thisprogram.

In addition, some employees have expressed a desireto wear respirators during certain operations that donot require respiratory protection. As a general policy____________________________ will review each of theserequests on a case-by-case basis. If the use of respira-tory protection in a specific case will not jeopardize thehealth or safety of the employee(s), ____________________________________ will provide respirators for voluntaryuse. As outlined in the Scope and Application section ofthis program, voluntary respirator use is subject to cer-tain requirements of this program.

2. Scope and Application

This program applies to all employees who are required to wear respirators during normal work opera-tions, and during some non-routine or emergency oper-ations such as a spill of a hazardous substance. Thisincludes workers in the Prep, Coating (Spray Booth),Assembly, and Maintenance departments. All employ-ees working in these areas and engaged in certainprocesses or tasks (as outlined in the table below) mustbe enrolled in the company’s respiratory protection program.

In addition, any employee who voluntarily wears a res-pirator when a respirator is not required (i.e., in certainmaintenance and coating operations) is subject to themedical evaluation, cleaning, maintenance, and storageelements of this program, and must be provided withcertain information specified in this section of the program.


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Table 1: Voluntary and Required Respirator Use at ___________________________________

Type of Respirator Employee Work Area Conditions of Use

Filtering facepiece (dust mask) Warehouse workers Voluntary

Filtering facepiece Maintenance workers when Voluntarycleaning spray booth walls or changing spray booth filter

PAPR with P100 filter Preparation and Assembly Mandatory

SAR, pressure demand, Maintenance - dip Mandatorywith auxiliary SCBA coat tank cleaning

Continuous flow SAR Spray booth operations Mandatorywith hood (prep and cleaning)

Half facepiece APR, Dip Coat Tenders, Spray Voluntarywith organic vapor Maintenance workerscartridge and loading coating agents

into supply system

Escape SCBA Dip Coat, Coatings MandatoryStorage Area, SprayBooth Cleaning Areauntil ventilation is installed

Supervisors: supervisors are responsible for ensuringthat the respiratory protection program is implementedin their particular areas. In addition to being knowledge-able about the program requirements for their own pro-tection, supervisors must also ensure that the programis understood and followed by the workers under theircharge. Note: Workers participating in the respiratoryprotection program do so at no cost to themselves.

Duties of the supervisor include:

• Ensuring that employees under their supervision (in-cluding new hires) have received appropriate train-ing, fit testing, and annual medical evaluation.

• Ensuring the availability of appropriate respiratorsand accessories.

• Being aware of tasks requiring the use of respiratoryprotection.

• Enforcing the proper use of respiratory protectionwhen necessary.

• Ensuring that respirators are properly cleaned,maintained, inspected, and stored according to therespiratory protection plan.

• Ensuring that respirators fit well and do not causediscomfort.

3. Responsibilities

Program Administrator: the Program Administratoris responsible for administering the respiratory protec-tion program. Duties of the program administrator in-clude:

• Identifying work areas, processes or tasks that re-quire workers to wear respirators, and evaluatinghazards.

• Ensuring adequate air quantity, quality, and flow ofbreathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators.(See (c)(1) of the standard.)

• Selection of respiratory protection options.

• Monitoring respirator use to ensure that respiratorsare used in accord with their certifications.

• Arranging for and/or conducting training.

• Ensuring proper storage, cleaning, inspections, andmaintenance of respiratory protection equipment.

• Conducting qualitative fit testing with Bitrex.

• Administering the medical surveillance program.

• Maintaining records required by the program.

• Evaluating the program.

• Updating written program, as needed.

• The Program Administrator for____________________is ________________________.


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• Continually monitoring work areas and operationsto identify respiratory hazards.

• Coordinating with the Program Administrator onhow to address respiratory hazards or other con-cerns regarding the program.

• Ensuring adequate air quantity, quality, and flow ofbreathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators.(See (c)(1) of the standard.)

Employees: each employee has the responsibility:

• To wear his or her respirator when and where required and in the manner in which they weretrained.

• Care for and maintain their respirators as instructed,and store them in a clean, sanitary location.

• Inform their supervisor if the respirator no longer fitswell, and request a new one that fits properly.

• Inform their supervisor or the Program Administra-tor of any respiratory hazards that they feel are notadequately addressed in the workplace and of anyother concerns that they have regarding the program.

• Inform their supervisor of need for a medical reevaluation.

4. Program Elements

Selection Procedures – The Program Administrator:

• Will select respirators to be used on site, based onthe hazards to which workers are exposed and in ac-cord with all applicable OSHA standards.

• Will conduct a hazard evaluation for each operation,process, or work area where airborne contaminantsmay be present in routine operations or during anemergency.

• Monitoring can be contracted out.

• The hazard evaluation will include:

- Identification and development of a list of hazardous substances used in the workplace, bydepartment or work process.

- Review of work processes to determine where po-tential exposures to these hazardous substancesmay occur. This review is to be conducted by sur-veying the workplace, reviewing process records,and talking with employees and supervisors.

- Exposure monitoring to quantify potential hazardous exposures.

- If worker exposures have not been, or cannot be,evaluated they must be considered IDLH.

- Respirators are selected based on the workplacehazards evaluated, and workplace and user factorsaffecting respirator performance and reliability.

• Respirators are selected based on the Assigned Pro-tection Factors (APFs) and calculated Maximum UseConcentrations (MUCs).

• A sufficient number of respirator sizes and modelsmust be provided to the employee during fit testingto identify the acceptable respirator that correctly fitsthe users.

• For IDLH atmospheres:

- Full facepiece pressure demand SARs with auxil-iary SCBA unit or full facepiece pressure demandSCBAs, with a minimum service life of 30 minutes,must be provided.

- Respirators used for escape only are NIOSH-certi-fied for the atmosphere in which they will be used.

- Oxygen deficient atmospheres are consideredIDLH.

• For Non-IDLH atmospheres, respirators are:

- Selected as appropriate for the APFs and MUCs.

- Selected as appropriate for the chemical natureand physical form of the contaminant.

- Equipped with end-of-service-life indicators(ESLIs) if the respirators (APRs) are used for protection against gases and vapors. If there is no ESLI, then a change schedule must be implemented.

- Equipped with NIOSH-certified HEPA filters (orother filters certified by NIOSH for particulatesunder 42 CFR part 84) if the respirators (APRs) areto be used for protection against particulates.

• When monitoring is contracted out, an example ofthe type of statement needed in the respirator pro-gram is: _________________________________________currently has a contract with ______________________to provide monitoring when needed.

Note: Table 2 at the end of this program containsthe sampling data on which this section was based.The results of the current hazard evaluation are thefollowing:

- Prep-sanding: Ventilation controls on somesanders are in place, but employees continue tobe exposed to respirable wood dust at 2.5 - 7.0mg/m3 (8-hour time-weighted average, or TWA).Half facepiece APRs with P100 filters and gogglesare required for employees sanding wood pieces.PAPRs will be available for employees who areunable to wear an APR.

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- Prep-cleaning: Average methylene chloride expo-sures measured at 70 ppm based on 8-hour TWAexposure results for workers cleaning/strippingfurniture pieces. Ventilation controls are plannedbut will not be implemented until designs arecompleted and a contract has been let for installa-tion of the controls. In the meantime, workersmust wear supplied-air hoods with continuous airflow, as required by the Methylene Chloride stan-dard at 29 CFR 1910.1052.

- Coating-spray booth: ___________________________has decided to take a conservative approach andrequire all employees to wear supplied-air respira-tors when working inside the spray booth. Basedon exposure data in published reports on thesame type of spray booth operations, the ProgramAdministrator has determined that a SAR in thecontinuous flow mode will provide sufficient pro-tection. Spray booth employees may opt to wearhalf facepiece APRs with organic vapor cartridgeswhen cleaning spray guns.

- Coating-dip coat and drying: Exposures are keptwithin PELs by ventilation, and employees gener-ally enter the dip coat area for short time periods(up to one hour). Vapors could leak into the dipcoat and drying areas if the ventilation system isnot running at peak efficiency. Odors in this areaare often unpleasant even at the levels maintainedby the ventilation system. While___________________ notes that respiratory protec-tion is not required in this area, the company rec-ognizes employee concern about breathingvapors and about having to work in an unpleasantenvironment. Accordingly, employees may volun-tarily choose to wear a half facepiece APR with or-ganic vapor cartridges when working in this area.

- Assembly: Ventilation controls on sanders are inplace, but employees continue to be exposed torespirable wood dust at 2.5 - 6.0 mg/m3 (8-hourTWA); half facepiece APRs with P100 filters andgoggles are required for employees sandingwood pieces in the assembly department. PAPRswill be available for employees who are unable towear an APR. The planned substitution for aque-ous-based glues will eliminate exposures toformaldehyde, methylene chloride, and epoxyresins. Until then, appropriate respiratory protec-

tion is required according to the Formaldehydeand Methylene Chloride standards, and the cartridge, filter, and canister requirements of theRespiratory Protection standard at paragraph(d)(3)(ii).

- Maintenance: Because of potential IDLH condi-tions, employees cleaning dip coat tanks mustwear a pressure demand SAR during the perform-ance of this task. Employees may voluntarily wearhalf facepiece APRs with P100 cartridges whencleaning spray booth walls or changing booth fil-ters, and half facepiece APRs with organic vaporcartridges when loading coating agents into sup-ply systems. Although exposure monitoring hasshown that exposures are kept within PELs duringthese procedures, _____________________________will provide respirators to workers who are con-cerned about potential exposures.


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Table 2: Hazard Assessment (Sample Program) - Date of Assessment

Department

Spray Booth Cleaning Area

Dip Coat/ Drying Area

Coatings Storage Area

Dip Coat TankCleaner

PreparationCoat/AssemblyArea/Maintenance

Preparation Sanding

Preparation cleaning/clean and strip

Coat/Spray Booth

Coat Spray/Cleaning Spray Gun

Coating/DipTank/Drying

Assembly

Maintenance:cleaning dip coat tanks

Contaminants

Possible emergencyspills of hazardoussubstances

Potentially malfunctioning ventilation system;leak in supply

Leaks/spills

Possible IDLH

Respirable wood dust,other particulates, vapors; can be IDLH

Respirable wood dust

Methylene Chloride

Respirable wood dust

Exposure Level(8-hr TWA)

2.5 - 7.0 mg/m3

70 ppm

2.5 - 6.0 mg/m3

IDLH

PEL

IDLH

Can be IDLH

15 mg/m3

25 ppm PEL12.5 ppm AL125 ppm STEL

15 mg/m3

Controls

Alarms; escape respirators located in Locker #1 in Spray Booth

Alarms; escape respirators located in Storage Area #3 in the DipCoat/Drying Area

Alarms; escape respirators located inlocker #4 in the Coating Storage Area

Pressure demand SAR; confinedspace entry procedures as specifiedin the Confined Space Program forthis workplace

Pressure demand SAR

Half facepiece APRs with P100 filtersand goggles

Awaiting the installation of ventila-tion; until then, SAR hood with con-tinuous flow

At Program Administrator’s discre-tion: SAR Hood with continuous flow

When cleaning spray guns only, employees may opt for APRs with organic vapor cartridges

Ventilation; employees work in thisarea for short periods of time only (anhour); due to the presence of smellsand vapors, employees may voluntar-ily choose to wear half mask APRswith organic vapor filters

Although ventilation has been pro-vided, employees still experience res-pirable dust; half facepiece APRs withP100 filters and goggles; PAPRs canbe made available to workers whocannot wear half mask APRs; substi-tution of aqueous-based glues willeliminate exposures to formalde-hyde, methylene chloride, and epoxyresins

Pressure demand SAR while per-forming this task

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Updating the Hazard Assessment – The Program Administrator:

• Must revise and update the hazard assessment asneeded (i.e., any time work process changes maypotentially affect exposure). If an employee feelsthat respiratory protection is needed during a partic-ular activity, he/she is to contact his or her supervi-sor or the Program Administrator. The ProgramAdministrator then:

• Will evaluate the potential hazard, arranging for out-side assistance as necessary.

• Will then communicate the results of that assess-ment back to the employees. If it is determined thatrespiratory protection is necessary, all other ele-ments of this program will be in effect for thosetasks, and this program will be updated accordingly.

• Will ensure that all respirators are certified by theNational Institute for Occupational Safety and Health(NIOSH) and are used in accord with the terms ofthat certification.

• Will also ensure that all filters, cartridges, and canis-ters must be labeled with the appropriate NIOSHcertification label. The label must not be removed ordefaced while it is in use.

• Regarding Voluntary Respirator Use, the followingstatement is needed: ___________________________will provide respirators at no charge to employeesfor voluntary use for the following work processes/areas:

Employees may wear half facepiece APRs with organic vapor cartridges while working in the dipcoat area.

Warehouse workers may wear filtering facepieces.

Spray Booth Operators may wear half facepieceAPRs with organic vapor cartridges while cleaningspray guns.

Maintenance personnel may wear half facepieceAPRs with P100 cartridges while cleaning spraybooth walls, and organic vapor cartridges whileloading spray guns.

The Program Administrator will also:

• Provide all employees who voluntarily choose towear either of the above respirators with a copy of Appendix D of the standard specified by the Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134).(Appendix D details the requirements for voluntaryuse of respirators by workers.) Workers choosing towear a half facepiece APR must comply with theprocedures for medical evaluation, respirator use,

and cleaning, maintenance and storage.

• Authorize voluntary use of respiratory protectiveequipment as requested by all other workers on acase-by-case basis, depending on specific workplaceconditions and the results of the medical evalua-tions. Voluntary use does not require compliancewith these specific provisions of the standard.

Medical Evaluation: Employees who are either required to wear respirators, or who choose to wearan APR voluntarily, must pass a medical exam before being permitted to wear a respirator on thejob. Employees are not permitted to wear respira-tors until a PLHCP has determined that they aremedically able to do so. Any employee refusing the medical evaluation will not be allowed to work in an area requiring respirator use. A PLHCP_______________________________, where all company medical services are provided, will providethe medical evaluations.

Medical evaluation procedures are as follows:

• The medical evaluation will be conducted using thequestionnaire provided in Appendix C of the Respi-ratory Protection standard.

• The Program Administrator will provide a copy ofthis questionnaire to all employees requiring medical evaluations.

• To the extent feasible, the company will assist em-ployees who are unable to read the questionnaire(by providing help in reading the questionnaire).When this is not possible, the employee will be sentdirectly to the physician for medical evaluation.

• All affected employees will be given a copy of themedical questionnaire to fill out, along with astamped and addressed envelope for mailing thequestionnaire to the company physician.

Employees will:

• Be permitted to fill out the questionnaire on com-pany time.

• Be granted follow-up medical exams as required bythe Respiratory Protection standard, and/or asdeemed necessary by __________________________the PLHCP.

• Be granted the opportunity to speak with the physician about their medical evaluation, if they sorequest.

The Program Administrator has provided ______________________________________ the physician with:


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• A copy of this program, and a copy of the Respira-tory Protection standard.

• The list of hazardous substances by work area, andfor each employee requiring evaluation, his or herwork area or job.

• The employee’s title, proposed respirator type andweight, length of time required to wear the respira-tor, expected physical work load (light, moderate, or heavy), potential temperature and humidity extremes, and any additional protective clothing required.

Any employee required for medical reasons to wear a positive pressure air purifying respirator will be provided with a powered air purifying respirator.

After an employee has received clearance and begun towear his or her respirator, additional medical evalua-tions will be provided if:

• The employee reports signs and/or symptoms related to their ability to use a respirator, such asshortness of breath, dizziness, chest pains, orwheezing.

• The PLHCP _________or supervisor informs the Program Administrator that the employee needs tobe reevaluated, additional medical evaluation will beprovided.

• Information from this program, including observa-tions made during fit testing and program evalua-tion, indicates a need for reevaluation.

• An example of the PLHCP’s or the supervisor’s observations that additional medical evaluation isneeded could be that there has been a change inworkplace conditions that may result in an increasedphysiological burden on the employee.

A list of ____________________________ employees cur-rently included in medical surveillance is provided inTable 3 of this program. All examinations and question-naires are to remain confidential between the employeeand the physician.

Fit Testing:

• Fit testing is required for employees wearing halffacepiece APRs for exposure to wood dust in Prepand Assembly, and maintenance workers who weara tight-fitting SAR for dip tank cleaning.

• Employees voluntarily wearing half facepiece APRsmay also be fit tested upon request.

• Employees who are required to wear half facepieceAPRs will be fit tested:

- Prior to being allowed to wear any respirator witha tight fitting facepiece.

- Annually.

- When there are changes in the employee’s physi-cal condition that could affect respiratory fit (e.g.,obvious change in body weight, facial scarring,etc.).

• Employees will be fit tested with the make, model,and size of respirator that they will actually wear.

• Employees will be provided with several modelsand sizes of respirators so that they may find an optimal fit.

• Fit testing of PAPRs is to be conducted in the nega-tive pressure mode. The Program Administrator willconduct fit tests following the OSHA approved Bi-trex Solution Aerosol QLFT Protocol in Appendix Aof the Respiratory Protection standard. The ProgramAdministrator has determined that QNFT is not re-quired for the respirators used under current condi-tions at ____________________________. If conditionsaffecting respirator use change, the Program Admin-istrator will evaluate on a case-by-case basiswhether QNFT is required.

Respirator Use - Responsibilities for Employees arethat they:

• Will use their respirators under conditions specifiedby this program, and in accord with the training theyreceive on the use of each particular model. In addi-tion, the respirator must not be used in a manner forwhich it is not certified by NIOSH or by its manufac-turer.

• Must conduct user seal checks each time that theywear their respirator.

• Must use either the positive or negative pressurecheck (depending on which test works best forthem) specified in Appendix B-1 of the RespiratoryProtection standard.

• Must leave the work area to go to the locker room tomaintain their respirator for the following reasons:

- to clean their respirator if the respirator is imped-ing their ability to work;

- to change filters or cartridges, or replace parts; or

- to inspect the respirator if it stops functioning asintended.

• Should notify their supervisor before leaving the area.

• Not wear tight-fitting respirators if they have anycondition, such as facial scars, facial hair, or missingdentures, that prevents them from achieving a goodseal.

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• Not wear headphones, jewelry, or other articles thatmay interfere with the facepiece-to-face seal.

Emergency Procedures:

• The following work areas have been identified ashaving foreseeable emergencies:

- Spray Booth Cleaning Area - spill of hazardouswaste

- Dip Coat Area - malfunction of ventilation system,leak in supply system

- Coatings Storage Area - spill or leak of hazardoussubstances

• When the alarm sounds, employees in the affecteddepartment must immediately don their emergencyescape respirator, shut down their process equip-ment, and exit the work area.

• All other employees must immediately evacuate thebuilding. ____________________________‘s EmergencyAction Plan describes these procedures (includingproper evacuation routes and rally points) in greaterdetail.

• Emergency escape respirators are located in:

- Locker #1 in the Spray Booth Area

- Storage cabinet #3 in the Dip Coat/Drying Area

- Locker #4 in the Coatings Storage Area

• Respiratory protection in these instances is for es-cape purposes only. ____________________________employees are not trained as emergency respon-ders, and are not authorized to act in such a manner.

Respirator Malfunction

1. APR Respirator Malfunction:

• For any malfunction of an APR (e.g., breakthrough,facepiece leakage, or improperly working valve), therespirator wearer must inform his or her supervisorthat the respirator no longer functions, and go to thedesignated safe area to maintain the respirator. Thesupervisor must ensure that the employee receivesthe needed parts to repair the respirator, or is pro-vided with a new respirator.

2. Atmosphere-Supplying Respirator Malfunction:

• All workers wearing atmosphere-supplying respira-tors will work with a buddy.

• Buddies should assist workers who experience anSAR malfunction as follows:

- If a worker in the spray booth experiences a mal-function of an SAR, he or she should signal to the

buddy that he or she has had a respirator mal-function. The buddy shall don an emergency es-cape respirator and aid the worker in immediatelyexiting the spray booth.

- Workers cleaning wood pieces or assembled fur-niture in the Prep department will work with abuddy. If one of the workers experiences a respira-tor malfunction, he/she shall signal this to theirbuddy. The buddy must immediately stop what heor she is doing to escort the worker to the Prepstaging area where the worker can safely removethe SAR.

IDLH Procedures

• The Program Administrator has identified the fol-lowing area as presenting the potential for IDLHconditions:

• Dip Coat Tank Cleaning:

- Maintenance workers will be periodically requiredto enter the dip tank to perform scheduled or unscheduled maintenance.

- In such cases, workers will follow the permit-required confined space entry procedures specified in the ____________________________Confined Space Program.

- As specified above, the Program Administratorhas determined that workers entering this areamust wear a pressure demand SAR.

- In addition, an appropriately trained and equippedstandby person must remain outside the dip tankand maintain constant voice and visual communi-cation with the worker.

- In the event of an emergency requiring thestandby person to enter the IDLH environment,the standby person must immediately notify theProgram Administrator and will proceed with res-cue operations in accord with rescue proceduresoutlined in the ____________________________ Confined Space Program.

Air Quality

• For supplied-air respirators, only Grade D breathingair is to be used in the cylinders.

• The Program Administrator will coordinate deliver-ies of compressed air with the company’s vendor,Compressed Air Inc., and require Compressed AirInc. to certify that the air in the cylinders meets thespecifications of Grade D breathing air.

• The Program Administrator will maintain a mini-mum air supply of one fully charged replacement


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cylinder for each SAR unit. In addition, cylindersmay be recharged as necessary from the breathingair cascade system located near the respirator stor-age area.

• The air for this system is provided by ____________’ssupplier, and deliveries of new air are coordinatedby the Program Administrator.

Cleaning, Maintenance and Change Schedulesand Storage

Cleaning

- Respirators are to be regularly cleaned and disin-fected at the designated respirator cleaning sta-tion located in the employee locker room.

- Respirators issued for the exclusive use of a em-ployee are to be cleaned as often as necessary,but at least once a day for workers in the Prep andAssembly departments.

- Atmosphere-supplying and emergency use respi-rators are to be cleaned and disinfected after eachuse.

• The following procedure is to be used when clean-ing and disinfecting respirators:

- Disassemble respirator, removing any filters, can-isters, or cartridges.

- Wash the facepiece and associated parts in a milddetergent with warm water. Do not use organicsolvents.

- Rinse completely in clean warm water.

- Wipe the respirator with disinfectant wipes (70%Isopropyl Alcohol) to kill germs.

- Air dry in a clean area.

- Reassemble the respirator and replace any defec-tive parts.

- Place in a clean, dry plastic bag or other airtightcontainer.

• Note: The Program Administrator will ensure an ad-equate supply of appropriate cleaning and disinfec-tion material at the cleaning station. If supplies arelow, employees should contact their supervisor, whowill inform the Program Administrator.

Maintenance

• Respirators are to be properly maintained at alltimes to ensure that they function properly and ade-quately protect the employee.

• Maintenance involves a thorough visual inspectionfor cleanliness and defects.

• Worn or deteriorated parts will be replaced prior touse.

• No components will be replaced or repairs made be-yond those recommended by the manufacturer.

• Repairs to regulators or alarms of atmosphere-supplying respirators will be conducted by the manufacturer.

• The following checklist will be used when inspectingrespirators:

- Facepiece:

n cracks, tears, or holes

n facemask distortion

n cracked or loose lenses/faceshield

- Valves:

n Residue or dirt

n Cracks or tears in valve material

- Headstraps:

n breaks or tears

n broken buckles

- Filters/Cartridges:

n approval designation

n gaskets

n cracks or dents in housing

n proper cartridge for hazard

- Air Supply Systems:

n breathing air quality/grade

n condition of supply hoses

n hose connections

n settings on regulators and valves

• Employees are permitted to leave their work areaand go to a designated area that is free of respira-tory hazards when they need to wash their face andrespirator facepiece to prevent any eye or skin irrita-tion, or to replace the filter, cartridge or canister, orwhen they detect vapor or gas breakthrough orleakage in the facepiece or detect any other damageto the respirator or its components.

Change Schedules

- Employees wearing APRs or PAPRs with P100 fil-ters for protection against wood dust and otherparticulates need to change the cartridges on theirrespirators when they first begin to experience dif-ficulty breathing (i.e., resistance) while wearingtheir masks.

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- Based on discussions with our respirator distribu-tor about ____________________________’s work-place exposure conditions, employees voluntarilywearing APRs with organic vapor cartridges mustchange the cartridges on their respirators at theend of each work week to ensure the continued effectiveness of the respirators.

Storage

• Respirators must be stored in a clean, dry area, andin accord with the manufacturer’s recommenda-tions.

• Each employee will clean and inspect their own air-purifying respirator in accord with the provisions ofthis program, and will store their respirator in a plas-tic bag in their own locker.

• Each employee will have his/her name on the bag,and that bag will only be used to store that em-ployee’s respirator.

• Atmosphere-supplying respirators will be stored inthe storage cabinet outside of the Program Adminis-trator’s office.

• The Program Administrator will store _______________________________’s supply of respirators and respi-rator components in their original manufacturer’spackaging in the equipment storage room.

Defective Respirators

• Respirators that are defective or have defective partsmust be taken out of service immediately.

• If, during an inspection, an employee discovers a defect in a respirator, he/she is to bring the defect tothe attention of his or her supervisor.

• Supervisors will give all defective respirators to theProgram Administrator.

• The Program Administrator will decide whether to:

- Temporarily take the respirator out of service untilit can be repaired.

- Perform a simple fix on the spot such as replacinga headstrap.

- Dispose of the respirator due to an irreparableproblem or defect.

• When a respirator is taken out of service, the respi-rator will be tagged out of service, and the employeewill be given a replacement of the same make,model and size.

• If the employee is not given a replacement of thesame make, model and size, then the employeemust be fit tested.

• All tagged out-of-service respirators will be kept inthe storage cabinet inside the Program Administra-tor’s office.

Training

• The Program Administrator will provide training torespirator users and their supervisors on the con-tents of the ____________________________ Respira-tory Protection Program and their responsibilitiesunder it, and on the OSHA Respiratory Protectionstandard.

• Workers will be trained prior to using a respirator inthe workplace.

• The training must be comprehensive, understand-able and recur annually, and more often if necessary.

• As with any employee, supervisors must be trainedprior to using a respirator in the workplace; theyalso should be trained prior to supervising workerswho must wear respirators if the supervisors them-selves do not use a respirator.

• Supervisors will provide the basic information onrespirators in Appendix D of the Respiratory Protec-tion standard to employees who wear respiratorswhen not required by the employer to do so.

• Supervisors will ensure that each employee candemonstrate knowledge of at least the following:

Why the respirator is necessary and how improperfit, usage, or maintenance can compromise the pro-tective effect of the respirator;

What the limitations and capabilities of the respira-tor are;

How to use the respirator effectively in emergencysituations, including situations in which the respira-tor malfunctions;

How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and checkthe seals of the respirator;

What the procedures are for maintenance and stor-age of the respirator;

How to recognize medical signs and symptoms thatmay limit or prevent the effective use of respirators;and

The general requirements of the Respiratory Protec-tion standard.

• Supervisors will ensure that employees will be re-trained annually or as needed (e.g., if they changedepartments and need to use a different respirator).

An employer who is able to demonstrate that a newemployee has received training within the last 12months that addresses the elements specified in


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paragraph (k)(1)(i) through (vii) is not required to re-peat such training provided that, as required byparagraph (k)(1), the employee can demonstrateknowledge of those element(s).

Previous training not repeated initially by the em-ployer must be provided no later than 12 monthsfrom the date of the previous training.

Retraining shall be administered annually, and whenthe following situations occur:

Changes in the workplace or the type of respiratorrender previous training obsolete;

Inadequacies in the employee’s knowledge or useof the respirator indicate that the worker has notretained the requisite understanding or skill; or

Any other situation arises in which retraining ap-pears necessary to ensure safe respirator use.

The basic advisory information on respirators, aspresented in Appendix D of the Respiratory Protec-tion standard, shall be provided by the employer inany written or oral format to employees who wearrespirators when such use is not required by thissection or by the employer.

5. Program Evaluation

• The Program Administrator will conduct periodicevaluations of the workplace to ensure that the pro-visions of this program are being implemented.

• The evaluations will include regular consultationswith employees who use respirators and their su-pervisors, site inspections, air monitoring and a re-view of records.

• List factors to be evaluated (see (l)(2).)

• Problems identified will be noted in an inspectionlog and corrected by the Program Administrator.

• These findings will be reported to _________________management, and the report will list plans to correctdeficiencies in the respirator program and targetdates for implementing those corrections.

6. Documentation and Recordkeeping

• A written copy of this program and the OSHA standard is kept in the Program Administrator’soffice and is available to all employees who wish toreview it.

• Also maintained in the Program Administrator’soffice are copies of training materials.

• Copies of fit test records (see (m)(2) of thestandard). These records will be updated as new fittests are conducted.

• These records will be updated as new employeesare trained and as existing employees receive refresher training.

• The Program Administrator will also maintain copiesof the records for all employees covered under therespirator program (except medical records).

• The completed medical questionnaire and thePLHCP's documented findings are confidential andwill remain at ____________________________. Thecompany will only retain the physician’s written recommendation regarding each employee’s abilityto wear a respirator.

Table 3: A list of __________________________ employees currently included in the medical surveillance program.Date of Listing.

Name of first employee _________________________________________________ Date___________________

Second name __________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Next name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Next name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Next name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Next name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Next name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Next name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

Last name_____________________________________________________________ Date___________________

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Attachment 5: NIOSH MultiVapor InformationThe National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth (NIOSH) announced new computer software thatenables administrators of workplace respiratory protec-tion programs to consider the effects of relative humid-ity on the service life of NIOSH-approved organic vapor(OV) chemical cartridges. This software assists programadministrators, in workplaces where air-purifying respi-rators are used, in reducing on-the-job respiratory ex-posures to potentially harmful organic vapors from asingle volatile source, such as an individual paint, thin-ner, or solvent.

The ambient relative humidity in the environment inwhich an air-purifying respirator is used or stored is oneof the factors that, over time, can cause the sorbent in acartridge to lose its ability to collect organic vaporsfrom the air breathed in through the cartridge. Collect-ing the vapors removes them from the air that the res-pirator user breathes into his or her body. Advances incomputational capabilities of personal computers, andverification of the mathematical model through recentresearch, made possible the addition of this critical fac-tor to the software program that was not included inprevious government versions.

The new software program also incorporates factorsthat were used in previous computer software availablefrom the government. Those factors include, for exam-ple, the type of air contaminant against which thechemical cartridge will protect the user, the concentra-tion of the contaminant, the parameters of the cartridgeand the rate at which the user is working.

By using the software, a respirator program administra-tor can determine when the cartridge is likely to reach

the end of its service life or effectiveness; this is thepoint at which “breakthrough” is likely to occur as thesorbent no longer is able to collect organic vapors atthe needed capacity. With that information, the admin-istrator will know when to schedule a replacement ofthe cartridge.

“Especially in situations when the use of air-purifyingrespirators may be necessary for hours, knowing whento change the organic vapor cartridge is critical forkeeping the user safe and healthy,” said NIOSH DirectorJohn Howard, M.D. “By adding in a key factor that wasnot included in previous government software, pro-gram administrators can feel more confident in theschedules they set for changing cartridges.”

The new computer software reflects the concept of gov-ernment leadership through collaboration with diversetechnical organizations. The software resulted from re-search conducted by Los Alamos National Laboratory(LANL), in conjunction with a partnership by NIOSH,LANL, the Occupational Safety and Health Administra-tion (OSHA), the International Safety Equipment Associ-ation (ISEA), the American Chemistry Council (ACC), theSynthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association(SOCMA), the National Paint and Coatings Association(NPCA), and the American Petroleum Institute (API), or-ganized and led by ORC Worldwide. The consortiumprovided funding for the initial research and then joinedwith NIOSH, which provided funding necessary to complete the work.

The NIOSH website for calculating end of service indicators for organics, called “MultiVapor,”can be ac-cessed at: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/multivapor/ multivapor.html.


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Attachment 6: NIOSH Tables of Cartridges and Canisters by APFs (Modified to OSHA APFs)Table 1: Particulate Respirators

Assigned protection1 factor Type of Respirator

5 Quarter mask respirator

10 Any air-purifying elastomeric half mask respirator equipped with appropriate type of particulate filter.2

Appropriate filtering facepiece respirator.2,3

Any air-purifying full facepiece respirator equipped with appropriate type of particulate filter.2

Any negative pressure (demand) supplied-air respirator equipped with a half mask.

25 Any powered air-purifying respirator equipped with a loose-fitting hood or helmet and a high efficiency (HEPA) filter.

Any continuous flow supplied-air respirator equipped with a hood or helmet.

50 Any air-purifying full facepiece respirator equipped with N-100, R-100, or P-100 filter(s).4

Any powered air-purifying respirator equipped with a tight-fitting facepiece (half or full facepiece) and a high-efficiency filter.

Any negative pressure (demand) supplied-air respirator equipped with a full facepiece.

Any continuous flow supplied-air respirator equipped with a tight-fitting facepiece (half or full facepiece).

Any negative pressure (pressure demand) self-contained respirator equipped with a half or full facepiece.

1,000 Any pressure-demand, or other positive pressure mode, supplied-air respirator equipped with a full facepiece

Any powered air-purifying respirator with helmet or hood for which the employer has provided evidence provided by the respirator manufacturer that testing of these respirators demonstrates performance at a level of protection of 1,000 or greater.

10,000 Any pressure-demand, or other positive pressure mode self-contained respirator equipped with a full facepiece.

Any pressure-demand self contained breathing apparatus respirator equipped with a full facepiece helmet or hood.

1 The protection offered by a given respirator is contingent upon (1) the respirator user adhering to complete program requirements(such as the ones required by OSHA in 29 CFR 1910.134), (2) the use of NIOSH-certified respirators in their approved configuration, and(3) individual fit testing to rule out those respirators that cannot achieve a good fit on individual workers. 2 “Appropriate” means that the filter medium will provide protection against the particulate in question. See step 4.0 for information onthe presence or absence of oil particulates.3 An APF of 10 can only be achieved if the respirator is qualitatively or quantitatively fit tested on individual workers.4 N, P, and R series: Since 1995, NIOSH has been approving three series of particle-filtering respirators, designated N, R and P. Withineach series, three levels of efficiency in removing the laboratory test aerosols are certified: 95%, 99% and 99.97%. N-series filters are notrequired to demonstrate resistance to the potentially “degrading” effects of oils, and are, therefore, not intended for use in workplace atmospheres that contain oily aerosols. In this context, “degrading” means that exposure to an agent may cause an increase in filterpenetration measured under laboratory test conditions. R and P series filters must demonstrate oil resistance when tested with dioctylphthalate (DOP), which is described as a “highly degrading” oil aerosol. As a result both R and P filters can be used in workplace atmospheres that contain oily aerosols, as well as those that do not. In other cases, NIOSH-certified electret filters are necessary sincethe filtering efficiency of respiratory protection may be degraded by electrical charges. Electret filters consist of electrically chargedfibers, such as polymer fibers, and they are widely used in particulate respirators. The charges enhance their filtration efficiency, particularly for submicrometer aerosols, without a corresponding increase in pressure drop across the filter. Electret filters can be N, P, R filters across all of the filtering efficiencies of 95% through 99.97%.

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Table 2: Gas/Vapor Respirators


10 Any air-purifying half mask respirator equipped with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges.2


25 Any powered air-purifying respirator with a loose-fitting hood or helmet equipped with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges.2


50 Any air-purifying full facepiece respirator equipped with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges2 or gas mask (canister respirator).2

Any powered air-purifying respirator equipped with a tight-fitting facepiece (half facepiece) and appropriate gas/vapor cartridges or canisters.2


Any continuous flow supplied-air respirator equipped with a tight-fitting facepiece (half facepiece).

Any negative pressure (pressure demand) self-contained respirator equipped with a half facepiece.

1,000 Any pressure-demand supplied-air respirator equipped with a half or full facepiece.

10,000 Any pressure-demand self-contained respirator equipped with a full facepiece.

Any pressure-demand supplied-air respirator equipped with a full facepiece in combination with an auxiliary pressure-demand self-contained breathing apparatus.

1 The protection offered by a given respirator is contingent upon (1) the respirator user adhering to complete program requirements(such as the ones required by OSHA in 29 CFR 1910.134), (2) the use of NIOSH-certified respirators in their approved configuration, and(3) individual fit testing to rule out those respirators that cannot achieve a good fit on individual workers. 2 Select a cartridge/canister certified to be used for the specific class of chemicals or the specific gas/vapor found in your workplace.


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Table 3: Combination Gas/Vapor and Particulate Respirators


10 Any air-purifying half mask respirator equipped with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges2 in combination with appropriate type of particulate filter.3

Any full facepiece respirator with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges2

in combination with appropriate type of particulate filter.3


25 Any powered air-purifying respirator with a loose-fitting hood or helmet that is equipped with an appropriate gas/vapor cartridge2 in combination with a high-efficiency particulate filter.


50 Any air-purifying full facepiece respirator equipped with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges2 in combination with an N-100, R-100 or P-100 filter or an appropriate canister2 incorporating an N-100, P-100 or R-100 filter.

Any powered air-purifying respirator with a tight-fitting facepiece (half or full facepiece) equipped with appropriate gas/vapor cartridges2 in combination with a high-efficiency filter or an appropriate canister2 incorporating a high-efficiency filter.


Any continuous flow supplied-air respirator equipped with a tight-fitting facepiece (half or full facepiece).

Any negative pressure (demand) self-contained respirator equipped with a full facepiece.

1,000 Any pressure-demand supplied-air respirator equipped with a half or full mask.

10,000 Any pressure-demand self-contained respirator equipped with a full facepiece.

Any pressure-demand supplied-air respirator equipped with a full facepiece in combination with an auxiliary pressure-demand self-contained breathing apparatus.

1 The protection offered by a given respirator is contingent upon (1) the respirator user adhering to complete program requirements(such as the ones required by OSHA in 29 CFR 1910.134), (2) the use of NIOSH-certified respirators in their approved configuration, and(3) individual fit testing to rule out those respirators that cannot achieve a good fit on individual workers. 2 Select a cartridge/canister certified to be used for the specific class of chemicals or the specific gas/vapor found in your workplace.3 “Appropriate” means that the filter medium will provide protection against the particulate in question.

NIOSH publication 2005-100, Respirator Selection.

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Complaints, Emergencies and Further Assistance

Workers have the right to a safe workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHAct) was passed to prevent workers from being killedor seriously harmed at work. The law requires employers to provide their employees with workingconditions that are free of known dangers. Workersmay file a complaint to have OSHA inspect theirworkplace if they believe that their employer is notfollowing OSHA standards or that there are serioushazards. Further, the Act gives complainants the rightto request that their names not be revealed to theiremployers. It is also against the law for an employerto fire, demote, transfer, or discriminate in any wayagainst a worker for filing a complaint or using otherOSHA rights.

To report an emergency, file a complaint, or seekOSHA advice, assistance, or products, call (800) 321-OSHA (6742) or contact your nearest OSHA regional, area, or state plan office listed or linked to at the end of this publication. The teletypewriter(TTY) number is (877) 889-5627. You can also file a complaint online by visiting OSHA’s website atwww.osha.gov. Most complaints submitted onlinemay be resolved informally over the phone or by fax with your employer. Written complaints, that are signed by a worker or their representative and submitted to the closest OSHA office, are more likely to result in an on-site OSHA inspection.

Compliance Assistance ResourcesOSHA can provide extensive help through a variety of programs, including free workplace consultations, compliance assistance, voluntary protection programs, strategic partnerships, alliances, and training and education. For more information on any of the programs listed below,visit OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).

Establishing an Injury and Illness Prevention ProgramThe key to a safe and healthful work environment is a comprehensive injury and illness prevention program.

Injury and illness prevention programs, known by a variety of names, are universal interventions thatcan substantially reduce the number and severity of workplace injuries and alleviate the associated financial burdens on U.S. workplaces. Many states

have requirements or voluntary guidelines for workplace injury and illness prevention programs. Inaddition, numerous employers in the United Statesalready manage safety using injury and illness prevention programs, and we believe that all employers can and should do the same. Employersin the construction industry are already required tohave a health and safety program. Most successfulinjury and illness prevention programs are based on a common set of key elements. These includemanagement leadership, worker participation, hazard identification, hazard prevention and control,education and training, and program evaluation and improvement. Visit OSHA’s website athttp://www.osha.gov/dsg/topics/safetyhealth/index.html for more information and guidance on establishing effective injury and illness preventionprograms in the workplace.

Compliance Assistance SpecialistsOSHA has compliance assistance specialiststhroughout the nation who can provide informationto employers and workers about OSHA standards,short educational programs on specific hazards orOSHA rights and responsibilities, and information onadditional compliance assistance resources. Contactyour local OSHA office for more information.

OSHA Consultation Service for Small EmployersThe OSHA Consultation Service provides free assistance to small employers to help them identifyand correct hazards, and to improve their injury andillness prevention programs. Most of these servicesare delivered on site by state government agenciesor universities using well-trained professional staff.

Consultation services are available to private sectoremployers. Priority is given to small employers with the most hazardous operations or in the mosthigh-hazard industries. These programs are largelyfunded by OSHA and are delivered at no cost to employers who request help. Consultation servicesare separate from enforcement activities. To requestsuch services, an employer can phone or write to theOSHA Consultation Program. See the Small Business section of OSHA’s website for contact information for the consultation offices in everystate.

n Safety and Health Achievement Recognition ProgramUnder the consultation program, certain exemplary employers may request participationin OSHA's Safety and Health Achievement


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Recognition Program (SHARP). Eligibility for participation includes, but is not limited to, receiving a full-service, comprehensive consultation visit, correcting all identified hazards,and developing an effective injury and illness prevention program.

Cooperative ProgramsOSHA offers cooperative programs to help preventfatalities, injuries and illnesses in the workplace.

n OSHA’s Alliance ProgramThrough the Alliance Program, OSHA works withgroups committed to worker safety and health to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. These groups include businesses, tradeor professional organizations, unions, consulates,faith- and community-based organizations, andeducational institutions. OSHA and the groupswork together to develop compliance assistancetools and resources, share information with workers and employers, and educate workers andemployers about their rights and responsibilities.

n Challenge ProgramThis program helps employers and workers improve their injury and illness prevention programs and implement an effective system toprevent fatalities, injuries and illnesses.

n OSHA Strategic Partnership Program (OSPP)Partnerships are formalized through tailoredagreements designed to encourage, assist andrecognize partner efforts to eliminate serious hazards and achieve model workplace safety andhealth practices.

n Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP)The VPP recognize employers and workers in private industry and federal agencies who have implemented effective injury and illness prevention programs and maintain injury and illness rates below national Bureau of Labor Statistics averages for their respective industries.In VPP, management, labor, and OSHA work cooperatively and proactively to prevent fatalities,injuries, and illnesses.

OSHA Training Institute Education CentersThe OSHA Training Institute (OTI) Education Centersare a national network of nonprofit organizations authorized by OSHA to conduct occupational safetyand health training to private sector workers, supervisors and employers.

Susan Harwood Training and Education GrantsOSHA provides grants to nonprofit organizations toprovide worker education and training on seriousjob hazards and avoidance/prevention strategies.

Information and PublicationsOSHA has a variety of educational materials and electronic tools available on its website atwww.osha.gov. These include Safety and Health Topics Pages, Safety Fact Sheets, Expert Advisorsoftware, copies of regulations and compliance directives, videos and other information for employers and workers. OSHA’s software programsand eTools walk you through safety and health issues and common problems to find the best solutions for your workplace.

OSHA’s extensive publications help explain OSHAstandards, job hazards, and mitigation strategies and provide assistance in developing effective injuryand illness prevention programs.

For a listing of free publications, visit OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov or call 1-800-321-OSHA(6742).

QuickTakesOSHA’s free, twice-monthly online newsletter, QuickTakes, offers the latest news about OSHA initiatives and products to assist employers andworkers in finding and preventing workplace hazards. To sign up for QuickTakes, visit OSHA’swebsite at www.osha.gov and click on QuickTakesat the top of the page.

Contacting OSHATo order additional copies of this publication, to get a list of other OSHA publications, to ask questions or to get more information, to contact OSHA’s free consultation service, or to file a confidentialcomplaint, contact OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742),(TTY) 1-877-889-5627 or visit www.osha.gov.

For assistance, contact us.We are OSHA. We can help.

It’s confidential.

OSHA Regional Offices

Region IBoston Regional Office(CT*, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT*) JFK Federal Building, Room E340Boston, MA 02203(617) 565-9860 (617) 565-9827 Fax

Region IINew York Regional Office(NJ*, NY*, PR*, VI*)201 Varick Street, Room 670New York, NY 10014(212) 337-2378 (212) 337-2371 Fax

Region IIIPhiladelphia Regional Office(DE, DC, MD*, PA, VA*, WV)The Curtis Center170 S. Independence Mall WestSuite 740 WestPhiladelphia, PA 19106-3309(215) 861-4900 (215) 861-4904 Fax

Region IVAtlanta Regional Office(AL, FL, GA, KY*, MS, NC*, SC*, TN*)61 Forsyth Street, SW, Room 6T50Atlanta, GA 30303(678) 237-0400 (678) 237-0447 Fax

Region VChicago Regional Office(IL*, IN*, MI*, MN*, OH, WI)230 South Dearborn Street Room 3244Chicago, IL 60604(312) 353-2220 (312) 353-7774 Fax

Region VIDallas Regional Office(AR, LA, NM*, OK, TX)525 Griffin Street, Room 602Dallas, TX 75202(972) 850-4145 (972) 850-4149 Fax(972) 850-4150 FSO Fax

Region VIIKansas City Regional Office(IA*, KS, MO, NE)Two Pershing Square Building2300 Main Street, Suite 1010Kansas City, MO 64108-2416(816) 283-8745 (816) 283-0547 Fax

Region VIIIDenver Regional Office(CO, MT, ND, SD, UT*, WY*)1999 Broadway, Suite 1690Denver, CO 80202-5716(720) 264-6550 (720) 264-6585 Fax

Region IXSan Francisco Regional Office(AZ*, CA*, HI*, NV*, and American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands)90 7th Street, Suite 18100San Francisco, CA 94103(415) 625-2547 (415) 625-2534 Fax

Region XSeattle Regional Office(AK*, ID, OR*, WA*)1111 Third Avenue, Suite 715Seattle, WA 98101-3212(206) 553-5930 (206) 553-6499 Fax

*These states and territories operate their ownOSHA-approved job safety and health plans andcover state and local government employees as well as private sector employees. The Connecticut,Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Virgin Islandsprograms cover public employees only. (Private sector workers in these states are covered by FederalOSHA). States with approved programs must havestandards that are identical to, or at least as effectiveas, the Federal OSHA standards.

Note: To get contact information for OSHA area offices, OSHA-approved state plan offices and OSHAconsultation projects, please visit us online atwww.osha.gov or call us at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).

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Notes


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Notes

(800) 321-OSHA (6742)

U.S. Department of Laborwww.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA (6742)

For more information:

OccupationalSafety and HealthAdministration

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